The Hampden Football Netball League (HFNL) is proud to announce that Round 9 of the 2025 season will be officially recognised as Farmers Round, with all participating clubs wearing green armbands to show solidarity and support for the farming community.
In light of the ongoing drought and the mounting challenges faced by farmers across our region, the HFNL is standing united with those who continue to work tirelessly to support both our local economy and the nation’s food supply.
The initiative has been the brainchild of Elise McKinnon, a passionate advocate from the Farmer-Led Drought Relief Alliance.
“This is not just a rural issue — it’s a national crisis that impacts every Australian household through food
supply, economic strain, and the wellbeing of entire regions,” McKinnon said.
HFNL Administrator Trent Hill echoed the importance of the message.
“Wearing green armbands is a symbol of unity — showing that the local football and netball community stand with the people who contribute so much to our local community as well as the nation,” Hill said.
The green armband signifies the grass and the land — the very foundation of our farming communities and serves as a visual reminder of the deep connection between sport, country, and community.
The Green Armband Round aims to:
- Drive awareness of the impacts of drought on our farming communities
- Foster a spirit of support and community resilience
- Show our farmers they are not alone — we are here for them
“Farmers are the backbone of our region,” Hill added. “This round is about letting them know we see them, we support them, and we thank them.”
