Bell Park fires up for footy raffle

THE Bell Park Dragons scored a potentially life-saving result from last year’s Good for Footy Raffle, and are hoping to equal or better that this year.

The football club was an enthusiastic seller in last year’s edition of the annual raffle organised by Toyota, who provides the prizes – which include three of the marque’s latest models – but allows clubs to keep all the money they raise from tickets.

“It’s basically three free cars and you just get what you put in,” Bell Park president Jeff Jarvis said.

“It had a bit more momentum (for the club) in the past couple of years, because through COVID, everyone was scratching around looking for fundraising ideas, and Toyota were brilliant to offer it to all clubs.

“It’s open to AFL clubs as well; I think Port Adelaide and the Sydney Swans are quite active in selling tickets. It helps every club out.”

In 2021, the Dragons used their raffle earnings to purchase a defibrillator for the club.

“We do need another one, so we will buy another one,” Mr Jarvis said.

“Other than that, it’ll go into our Future Fund, which is repairs, maintenance and building for the future with the Future Fund – we’ve got a special account we fundraise for and put money towards that.”

Bell Park had raised $2,755 as of Wednesday last week, putting them 59th on the leaderboard and part of $758,680 raised since early March.

Mr Jarvis said the Dragons had some work to do, as they finished close to the top 20 in 2021.

Toyota is continuing to support community footy this season through its Good For Footy Raffle.

Good for Footy has supported clubs across Australia to bring in much-needed funds to assist with new facilities, community engagement, and more.

Since 2013, the raffle has helped raise $8 million for thousands of local clubs.

Entries to the Good for Footy raffle close on September 5, with the raffle to be drawn on September 9.

For more information or to buy tickets, head to toyotagoodforfooty.raffletix.com.au.