Thousands of footy fans heading to South Australia for AFL’s Gather Round this weekend are being reminded to moderate their alcohol consumption and be respectful towards others.
DrinkWise has partnered with the South Australian Government, police, current and former players to promote the message of moderation to ensure fan behaviour over the four-day event is safe for everyone attending.
Every AFL team will play matches at various venues around Adelaide and the Barossa Valley with Brownlow Medallist and hometown hero Gavin Wanganeen throwing his support behind the “Always respect, always DrinkWise” campaign.
“We all love getting swept up in the excitement of a big game, especially during Gather Round,” Wanganeen said.
“No one wants to miss a last-minute goal or a high-flying speccy so if you’re choosing to have a drink, do it in moderation to ensure you and everyone around you can enjoy every moment.”
DrinkWise CEO, Simon Strahan, said the positive shift in drinking behaviour among footy fans is continuing to grow.
“Our latest research shows that 89 per cent of footy fans say they typically drink responsibly at sporting events and 94 per cent believe excessive drinking can ruin the sporting experience for others.”
Strahan said the campaign isn’t intended to moderate excitement around the event, rather to encourage fans to moderate their alcohol consumption.
“It’s clear that attitudes are trending in a positive direction, with fans prioritising a more respectful and enjoyable game-day experience,” he said.
“Reminders are always helpful for those that are yet to heed the message.”
The “Always respect, always DrinkWise” messaging will appear on billboards in high-traffic areas across the city, including the arrivals hall at Adelaide Airport and within the Adelaide Oval on beer taps and within licenced areas.
The campaign messaging will also be displayed in retail liquor stores and hotel venues, supported by Coles Liquor, Endeavour Group, Retail Drinks Australia and the Australian Hotels Association South Australia.
Police will also target anti-social behaviour as well as drink-driving offences.
Acting South Australian Assistant Police Commissioner, John De Candia, said police will have a visible presence at venues and on roads near the Adelaide Oval, Norwood Oval and Barossa Park.
“We encourage all footy Gather Round attendees and fans watching from home to drink responsibly if consuming alcohol and do their part to keep themselves and everyone around them safe,” he said.