Lion’s design to roar across the nation

A TALENTED artist and dedicated Belmont Auskick coach will have her own design featured on 100,000 AusKick bags next year, after the Australian Football League (AFL) were impressed by her artwork.

Belmont Lion Bri Pengarte Apma Hayes has painted her whole life growing up, but only in the past few years has become a serious artist. Now, Apma Hayes will see her artwork all across the country.

“It was really exciting to receive a call from the AFL and ask to collaborate on a design for the Auskick bags,” she said.

“It’s just crazy that these bags are going to be across Australia, anyone who signs up for Auskick next season will receive a pack in these bags.

“I’m actually a primary school teacher, so hopefully I’ll see some of my students walking around with these bags.”

Born on Wathaurong country and a proud Arrernte woman with family from Alice Springs, Apma Hayes grew up inspired by her father, who was also an artist.

Channelling some of the lessons he taught her, the artwork’s design aims to recognise the selfless contributions of club volunteers, parents, and coach in order to make AusKick possible, and also tries to reflect the journey of football through the eyes of young players.

“Families around Belmont really encourage their kids to give football a go, that’s partly the reason why I started coaching AusKick,” Apma Hayes added.

“The Lions create a great environment for learning. You don’t need to be the best at football to start playing the game, it’s a willingness to learn that puts you on the right path.”

Apma Hayes made sure to mention how lucky she was to be a part of the Belmont community, a leader in Geelong football that recognises First Nations contributions and raises awareness of hardships Indigenous peoples still face today.

“I don’t think a lot of clubs really prioritise these issues,” she said.

“We’re lucky to have Traditional Owners come out for games, conduct smoking ceremonies host games like our Reconciliation Week match.

“We have a lot of passionate individuals at the club and it’s fantastic to be around.”