Westerns stalwart recognised nationally

BUNNINGS is celebrating another local footy club hero, with Kathryn Parsons from Westerns Football Netball Club being crowned one of Australia’s local BBQ legends as part of its nationwide Legend of the Tongs search – recognising the volunteers who keep Aussie rules footy clubs running, one snag at a time.

Now in its second year, the Legend of the Tongs shines a spotlight on the dedicated community members who show up week in, week out throughout the AFL and AFLW season, helping bring local footy to life both on and off the field.

Last week’s recognition celebrates Kathryn Parsons’ unwavering dedication to her club and the vital role she plays in creating a positive impact each week in their community.

Kathryn Parsons has been the heart of Westerns Football Netball Club for more than 30 years, progressing from player to coach and now volunteer coordinator, while also watching her own children pull on the club colours.

A 2021 life member, Kathryn spends countless hours volunteering, from running the canteen and BBQs to cooking Thursday night dinners for more than 100 senior players and Auskickers.

She said the club’s family culture and commitment to grassroots sport was what keeps her coming back, helping unite the community and support the next generation of players.

Despite being a small-town club and losing its home ground for a year, Westerns has continued to thrive through its volunteer spirit and strong culture, with both its senior football and netball teams pushing for finals this season.

As part of the prize, Westerns Football Netball Club will receive a BBQ prize pack valued over $585, including a Jumbuck 6 Burner BBQ and a Bunnings pop-up marquee.

Kathryn is also now in the running to score a trip for two to attend the Toyota AFL Grand Final, and be crowned the overall ‘Legend of the Golden Tongs’, winning $25,000 in Bunnings products and materials for their club.

The competition forms part of Bunnings’ 12th year in partnership with the AFL and runs across 18 weeks of the 2026 AFL season, recognising grassroots volunteers across both AFL and AFLW communities.

Bunnings Portland store manager Jarrod Smits said the Legend of the Tongs initiative was about celebrating the people who make local footy possible.

“From firing up the BBQ to supporting volunteers across the club, people like Kathryn are the heart and soul of community sport,” Jarrod said. “As Volunteer Coordinator, Kathryn leads by example, stepping in wherever needed – from cooking and serving meals to helping behind the scenes. Her energy and hands-on approach create a welcoming environment that keeps people coming back.”

Bunnings Head of Community, Sponsorship and Events Michelle Walter said the initiative celebrates the people who make local footy possible.

“Legend of the Tongs is all about recognising the heart of Australian rules football – the more than 200,000 volunteers who show up week in, week out to support their clubs,” Walter said.

“Following a hugely successful first year, we’re proud to bring Legend of the Tongs back in 2026, delivering practical equipment and support that helps grassroots AFL and AFLW clubs focus on what matters most – their people and their community.”

The recognition comes as Bunnings research from 2025 highlights the essential role of BBQ, canteen and other food services volunteers in shaping club culture, with almost one in three (29 per cent) Australians saying their favourite volunteer role is firing up the barbie.

As part of the 2026 campaign:

• Each week, five ‘legends’ and their local club will win a BBQ prize pack valued at over $585

• Eight shortlisted winners will score a trip for two to attend the Toyota AFL Grand Final, with some selected via a new public “community choice” vote

• One overall winner will be crowned the ‘Legend of the Golden Tongs’, winning $25,000 in Bunnings products and materials for their local club

Nominations are now open, with winners announced weekly. Entries close on August 16.

Know a BBQ legend? Nominate your local footy club’s Legend of the Tongs at bunnings.com.au/legends.