A growing junior football program in Barwon Heads has received a welcome boost thanks to funding from the Milford Community Connection Program. The grant will help to cover essential costs for Barwon Heads Junior Football Club, supporting both boys and girls across 15 teams and helping to keep local footy affordable for families.
Local Connections That Keep the Club Strong
The grant application came through club volunteer and committee member and Director at MJ Broking, Matt Raleigh, who is also a parent of three young players. From goal umpiring to first aid, Matt is a familiar face on the sidelines and a vocal supporter of the kids.
“I decided to apply again this year because the previous year’s donation was so appreciated,” says Matt. “The funds help the club keep junior sport accessible and avoid passing extra costs on to parents.”
Community Values in Action
Barwon Heads Junior Co-Ordinator, Ted Mithen, says Milford’s focus on supporting kids aligns closely with the club’s own values. “Milford has chosen us specifically to be a part of their program, delivering quality outcomes for kids of all genders and abilities and promoting activities that help them live their best lives,” he says.
This year, the club is especially excited about the continued growth of its girls’ football program. After just a few seasons, it now has five girls’ teams in action. They’ve also extended their reach through “merge” teams, partnering with neighbouring Modewarre and Armstrong Creek to give more kids the chance to play.
What the Grant Will Fund
The Milford grant is helping cover key costs that keep the club running – from footballs and training equipment to lighting and ground use. Ted says this practical support goes a long way, particularly when families are facing cost-of-living pressures.
“At grassroots level, that’s really felt by families with their discretionary spending. We see our football club as promoting something fun, healthy, and most importantly, affordable,” says Ted. “This grant is critical in helping us keep that promise to our local families.”
The club also hopes to stretch the funding to include a few fun extras – like putting on a junior disco, one of many social events that help make the club a vibrant part of the community.
Celebrating the Win
Ted says the whole club was “super excited” when they found out they’d received the grant. “Community clubs like ours can only exist with the support and generosity of sponsors, so to have Milford jump on board in support of our program was a huge thrill for everybody.”
Matt agrees. “It means a lot to be part of this program. We’re helping keep the cost of junior sport manageable for a lot of families in the area.”
Investing in the Next Generation
For both Ted and Matt, the most rewarding part is knowing the impact goes beyond sport. The program offers kids a safe, positive outlet at a time when they face growing pressures from technology and social media.
“Keeping kids fit, healthy and active needs to be a top priority,” says Ted. “That’s what really sets this program apart from others – it supports kids directly.”
About Barwon Heads Junior Football Club
Based on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria, Barwon Heads Junior Football Club is home to more than a dozen junior teams, plus a thriving Auskick program. The club prides itself on creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where game-day enjoyment is prioritised and participation is celebrated. With a strong focus on skill development, wellbeing, and community, the club is helping local kids fall in love with footy – and with being part of a team.
