Celebrating the important role our regional communities play, the third annual Powercor Country Festival saw more than 50,000 footy-mad fans turn out for the 9th round between Essendon v Geelong while the free festival before the match attracted record crowds.
Offering something for everyone, festival-goers rocked out to legendary band The Black Sorrows while foodies made the most of the farmer’s market.
Camel rides and a sheep-shearing demo entertained families and there was plenty of fun to be had in a pair of Powercor cherry pickers, ferrying folks sky high for the perfect selfie opportunity.
Going from strength to strength, former Essendon coach and Powercor Country Festival champion Kevin Sheedy said the Blockbuster showdown was a remarkable way to celebrate our regional brothers and sisters.
“This really is our opportunity as an industry to say thank you to our regional people, we love you, and you are the backbone of our country,” he said.
It was a sentiment echoed by Geelong CEO Brian Cook, who said, “The support and contribution our country communities continue to provide our club and the game is outstanding.”
Essendon CEO Xavier Campbell added, “We understand the role football plays in regional communities and the vehicle it provides for promoting positive role models, leadership and social inclusion.”
Powercor CEO Tim Rourke said, “Many of our employees live and work in country Victoria and giving back to these regions is an integral part of what we do.”