DrinkWise has announced that players from AFL, AFLW, NRL and NRLW have all joined this year’s footy finals campaign reminding fans of the importance of drinking moderately and always being respectful towards others.
As well as the sporting codes the campaign is also supported by the New South Wales Government, New South Wales Police, South Australian Government and South Australia Police, Queensland Government, the NRL, 1800RESPECT, Men’s Referral Service and 13 YARN.
DrinkWise Chief Executive Officer, Simon Strahan said: “The AFL, NRL and NRLW finals are some of the biggest calendar moments every year – they capture the attention of sports lovers around the country.
“As fans start to get excited for the action, we’ve joined forces with some of the games’ leading players across two sporting codes to take a moment to remind everyone to be mindful of their alcohol consumption. When someone drinks too much, they not only risk ruining their own time but others around them.
“We want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable time as they watch their favourite teams on the field and we encourage them to be respectful to everyone around them.”
The campaign features AFL legend Patrick Dangerfield, AFLW star Emma Kearney, NRL great Daly Cherry-Evans and NRLW champion Sam Bremner who encourage fans to enjoy the finals series, with the important reminder to moderate if choosing to consume alcohol and to always show respect to those around them.
Dangerfield said: “Footy finals season is here and I’m proud to support DrinkWise’s Always respect, always DrinkWise campaign as it plays an important role in keeping our loyal fans safe. As players, one of our top priorities has always been our fans. So let’s make sure we come together to support not only our teams but each other positively and respectfully.”
Bremner added: “Heading into the finals series, it’s crucial to highlight the importance of moderation and respect. With the NRLW continuing to grow and gain momentum, it’s a perfect opportunity to remind fans to celebrate responsibly. It’s been a big season and we can’t wait for it to end on a high note – both for players and fans.”
The campaign will be promoted across advertising signage, social media and broadcast radio, and Cherry-Evans said: “We thrive on the energy and passion of our fans during the finals series, no matter which code we represent. This year, we’re urging everyone who is choosing to drink to be mindful of their alcohol consumption.
“Enjoying the game responsibly not only enhances your own experience but also ensures the safety and enjoyment of those around you. Let’s all make the finals a time to remember for the right reasons.”
The campaign will also be seen in liquor retail outlets and hotel venues around the country with Coles Liquor, Endeavour Group, Retail Drinks Australia, Australian Hotels Association|South Australia, Clubs Queensland and Queensland Hotels Association supporting the campaign.
Kearney said: “By moderating alcohol consumption, we can all ensure everyone enjoys a fantastic experience. Let’s all work together to create a healthier, safer drinking culture.”
If you or someone you know needs assistance managing their alcohol consumption, please visit DrinkWise.org.au for a range of support services.
● If you or someone you know needs assistance managing their alcohol consumption, please visit DrinkWise.org.au for a range of support services.
● If you are a person impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence, including those supporting someone, please contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services.
● If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au
● If you or someone you know is an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping, call 13YARN on 13 92 76 or visit 13yarn.org.au.
To find out more about the Always respect, always DrinkWise campaign or the work DrinkWise is doing as part of its efforts to create a safer and healthier drinking culture in Australia please visit www.drinkwise.org.au.