Hampden: Green armbands worn in support for drought-stricken farmers

Southwest farmers doing it tough with drought were the subject of a special promotion in the Hampden league.

Drought-stricken farmers in Victoria’s southwest were front and centre in the Hampden Football-Netball League on Saturday when players and umpires wore green armbands in support of those on the land.

The initiative was rolled out across the league’s five matches including the Camperdown-Koroit clash at Camperdown, which the visitors won by three points.

The southwest has been battling drought for two years and AFL coaching legend Kevin Sheedy recently attended two community events in the region designed to lift morale of struggling farmers.

“I’d go back tomorrow to make sure the people in the city have a better understanding of the help and need that farmers do have at the present time,” Sheedy said.

“Whether it is drought two years in a row, whether it’s bushfires or floods, I honestly think Melbourne CBD people should learn how these people cope in those desperate periods.

“The green armbands in the Hampden league was a great idea.”

Camperdown captain Charlie Lucas, coach Clinton Thomas, field umpire Ashley Jennings, Koroit co-coach Sam Dobson and captain Liam Hoy take part in the green armbands promotion in support of drought-affected farmers. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

Farmers were encouraged to attend matches and invited to traditional afternoon teas at halftime of senior matches.

Hampden general manger Trent Hill said the competition spanning a huge area from Portland and Hamilton to Camperdown and Cobden had been suffering from a severe lack of rain.

“All the clubs were fantastic the way they embraced it,” Hampden league general manager Trent Hill said.

“Every club has the farming community part of their club, whether that is a player, official or sponsor.

“They all jumped on board and showed great support.”

Umpire Ashley Jennings was officiating his 200th senior match in the Campderdown-Koroit clash.

Colac Tigers, who play in the neighbouring Geelong league, also wore green armbands.

Camperdown’s Albie Cheeseman juggles a mark against Koroit.

Koroit’s Tom Baulch comes over the top to spoil.

Camperdown’s Charlie Lucas tackles Koroit’s Frazer Robb.

Koroit’s Ben Dobson leaps over the top of pack.

Camperdown vice-captain Luke O'Neil takes a strong mark against Koroit.

Koroit’s Jyron Neave is congratulated by teammates after booting a goal.

Koroit’s Dylan McCutcheon charges off with the ball.

Camperdown’s Judah Dundon has the ball fisted away by Koroit’s Ben Miller.

Camperdown’s Jonty Lafferty is tackled by two Koroit opponents.

Camperdown’s Judah Dundon prepares to mark on his chest in front of Koroit’s Brett Harrington.