Victory assist bushfire victims

Melbourne Victory will help Tasmanian bushfire victims through Saturday’s clash with Central Coast in Launceston.

The Victory were already scheduled to play the Mariners in Launceston prior to the fires that have reportedly destroyed over 100 homes on the Tasman Peninsula since last weekend.

But the club and Football Federation Australia (FFA) revealed on Monday that $5 for every adult ticket, $3 for each concession and $1 for every child’s ticket sold would be donated to the Tasmanian Bushfire Fund.

Victory managing director Richard Wilson said Victorians knew only too well the devastation bushfires can cause in the community.

“We’ve seen the tragic consequences of bushfires here in Victoria firsthand, with the affects of Black Saturday fires still being felt in our state,” Wilson said, referring to the devastating 2009 fires that led to 173 deaths.

“The way everyone around Australia came together to support Victorians through the tragedy was inspiring and I have no doubt the support will be there for those now impacted in areas like Carlton River, Boomer Bay and Dunalley as they try to recover from the destruction the fires have caused.

“Tasmania has been a part of Melbourne Victory for the past eight years, with the club playing games down there each year and we see it as an important part of our future.

“This gesture, with the FFA, is a way we can play a small part in assisting and this weekend’s match at Aurora Stadium is a great opportunity for local and interstate spectators at the game, to support those whose lives have been turned upside down by the fires.”

FFA chief executive David Gallop commended Victory for the initiative of using the Launceston match this Saturday to raise funds.

“Our thoughts are with those people in Tasmania who have suffered the loss of property and belongings in the devastating bushfires,” said Gallop.

“On behalf of the football community across Australia, I send the message that the victims have our support in these difficult times.

“I’m delighted that FFA will be able to join forces with Melbourne Victory to help raise funds for the recovery effort.”