Celebrating a century of Ford in Australia

FORD has officially marked a century in Australia, celebrating with an event in Melbourne that included thousands of employees, dealers, fans and owners.

Australia was one of the first markets the manufacturer established outside North America and first set up shop in Geelong, originally at the Dalegty Wool Store before moving to Corio.

Although no longer manufacturing vehicles in Geelong, the connection still runs deep as Ford and the Geelong Football Club have also celebrated 100 years of their partnership.

The partnership began in Ford’s first year of operation in Australia and is the world’s longest running in professional sport and includes support for men and women’s teams and off-field collaborations through community programs.

Ford Australia and New Zealand chief executive officer Andrew Birkic said the marque’s relationship with the football club was more than a logo on a jersey and was a genuine friendship.

“In the early days, many of our employees worked on the line during the week and took to the field for the Cats on the weekend.”

Ford has been partnered with Geelong Football Club since establishing themselves in Australia and were part of the pre-game celebration in 1986. Photo: BOB GARTLAND

“We’ve been with Geelong through good times and bad, because that’s what friends do.

“And while we’re immensely proud of our century-long relationship, we’re incredibly excited for what’s next.”

Geelong Football Club chief executive officer Steve Hocking said his club and Ford were united by a “fundamental passion” for high performance.

“Together over the course of a century the Geelong Football Club and Ford Motor Company have shared people and place, ideas and aspirations, 10 premierships and countless more achievements.”

The Australian Red Cross and Ford Philanthropy have also launched a new three-year $1.5 million partnership to support communities across the country.

Included as part of the partnership are community resilience programs, including a 12-month program in the City of Greater Geelong.

As part of the centenary celebrations Ford has published a deep dive into its history, including more than 16,000 digital items, product brochures, images from global Ford facilities and more.