Fundraiser organiser Alistair Ewart, AFL great Peter Daicos and Longwood Football Netball Club president Rick Shiner at the club's annual president’s luncheon.
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Despite facing the brunt of bushfire recovery, AFL legend Peter Daicos said the Longwood community was “all smiles” when he walked through the doors of the Redlegs’ clubrooms for a fundraising luncheon.
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While Daicos and AFL chief commissioner Andrew Newbold took centre stage at the Longwood Football Netball Club’s annual president’s luncheon on Saturday, July 18, the true star of the show was the community spirit on full display.
Mark Stevens poses questions to Collingwood great Peter Daicos.
Photo by
Billie Davern
“I know it’s been a really trying period, and I don’t know what you’re thinking, but all I can go off is the aesthetics and as soon as I walked in, all I got was smiles,” Mr Daicos said.
“We have these setbacks, and you’ve certainly had a trying time, but if I’m going off your personality, I think you’re well on the way back and I think today’s another little tick on that box that puts us in the right direction.”
Over a delicious roast lunch, journalist Mark Stevens led a Q&A-style interview with Mr Daicos and Mr Newbold to entertain the packed room throughout the afternoon.
Steph Sutton, Clair Lindner, Katherine Gundry and Elise Rendell ensured all were well fed.
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Billie Davern
AFL secrets were spilled, laughs were had and, above all, the resilience of the region was celebrated.
Speaking on his time as Hawthorn Football Club’s president, Mr Newbold shared a message that attendees were sure to bring home.
“Don’t get defined by your losses, because you lose more than you win,” he said.
Strathbogie Shire deuty mayor Claire Ewart Kennedy, Peter Daicos and Alistair and Ferg Ewart.
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The luncheon’s success was down to many hardworking players, including organiser Alistair Ewart, who emphasised the importance of supporting local recovery efforts after a shortfall in government assistance.
Mr Ewart said the Redlegs, who the community turned to during the worst of the fire, deserved the spotlight that this star-studded luncheon would shine on them.
“This is one of the most amazing footy clubs I’ve ever been involved with,” he said.
“(President) Ricky (Shiner) is a star. We’re blessed to have such a good footy club here, such a well-ordered club, and Ricky deserves as much praise as you can get.”
Mark Stevens and Andrew Newbold talk AFL.
Photo by
Billie Davern
Mr Shiner said he was humbled to see how many people turned up to the luncheon in support of the club and wider community.
“It’s been a very tough and emotional start to the year,” he said.
“Today, to see so many people here that care and are prepared to come and support our club and community means a hell of a lot to us.
“I’d really like to thank Al and (Strathbogie Shire deputy mayor) Claire (Ewart Kennedy) and obviously Peter and Andrew for coming up today and giving their time to support our club and community. It means the world.”
Fundraising totals are yet to be officially announced, but the luncheon saw much success with its auction of prized goods, including a framed Collingwood jersey signed by Peter, Josh and Nick Daicos.
