The search to find Footy’s Favourite Farmer is officially on, with the Andrews Labor Government and WorkSafe celebrating the unique role of sport in farming communities while promoting the importance of workplace safety on farms.

Tragically, three agricultural workers have already lost their lives this year – in 2022, 568 people working in the sector were injured seriously enough to make a worker's compensation claim.

Victorians can nominate a farmer’s involvement in their local country football netball club for a chance to win $10,000 towards safety upgrades for the winner’s farm, and another $10,000 for safety improvements or repairs at their club.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett is encouraging Ripon residents to put their favourite farmer in the running and nominate them today.

From May through to July, monthly finalists will be announced, and the farmer’s local club will also receive six footballs and six netballs. On 21 August, one monthly finalist will be crowned the 2023 WorkSafe Footy’s Favourite Farmer.

Nominations are open until 26 July – Victorians wanting to put forward their favourite local football netball club farmer can do so here countryclubhub.com.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“From Wedderburn to Skipton, and everywhere in between, our farmers play an integral part in our community. It’s important their safety is a priority.”

“Footy’s Favourite Farmer is about recognising the contributions of our farmers both out at the farm and at our local clubs – with the opportunity to improve safety at both.”

“All you need to do is say, in 50 words or less, why your nominee deserves to be Footy's Favourite Farmer in 2023.”