'); }); AU / NZ America Europe/UK Membership Login News Events Women in Sport Summit 2026 Women in Sport Performance Form 2026 Playa Power Program Women in Sport Futures Day 2026 Networking View All Education Playa Power Data GlS QUT View All Membership News Australia / New Zealand Events Conferences Awards Networking View All Education Playa Power Data GlS QUT View All Membership Topics Brands Media & Broadcast Olympic Sponsorship Sports Tech Women’s Sport Show More Topics >> Sports Australian Rules Basketball Cricket Netball Rugby League Soccer (Football) Show More Sports >> Login Membership Home > Fan Engagement > Bunnings Launches 2026 “Legend of the Tongs” Fan Engagement 3 min read Bunnings Launches 2026 “Legend of the Tongs” Written by MOS Editorial Team Published on 24 April 2026 Bunnings has officially fired up the second year of its nationwide Legend of the Tongs search, a community-focused initiative designed to celebrate the grassroots volunteers who serve as the backbone of Australian rules football. Now in its 12th year as an official AFL partner, the retailer will run the campaign across 18 weeks of the 2026 season, rewarding the local legends who sustain their clubs through the iconic match-day BBQ. The 2026 campaign introduces a new “community choice” public vote to help shortlist finalists, with the ultimate winner crowned the “Legend of the Golden Tongs.” This top honour includes $25,000 in Bunnings products and materials for the winner’s local club. The initiative follows a successful inaugural year in 2025, where 90-year-old Geoff Wills of the Bundoora Junior Football Club was recognised for an incredible 45 years of service. Former Richmond star, Matthew ‘Richo’ Richardson, returns as an ambassador, joined this year by four-time AFLW premiership player and commentator Libby Birch. The inclusion of Birch highlights the campaign’s focus on the rapid growth of the women’s game. “The growth of the women’s game… is only possible because of the dedication of volunteers at a grassroots level.” “It’s great to be part of a campaign that gives back to them,” Birch said. Bunnings head of community, sponsorship and events, Michelle Walters, emphasised that the program is a mechanical necessity for supporting the more than 200,000 volunteers nationwide. “Whether it’s firing up the BBQ, backing their teams or raising vital funds, these volunteers play a huge role in keeping community footy thriving,” Walters noted. Throughout the 18-week nomination period, Bunnings will recognise weekly “legends” from across the country. Each week, five clubs will receive a BBQ prize pack valued at over $585, featuring a Jumbuck 6-burner BBQ and a Bunnings pop-up marquee. Beyond the weekly prizes, eight standout winners will receive a trip for two to the 2026 Toyota AFL Grand Final. The first round of weekly winners has already been announced, including: New research from Bunnings reinforces the cultural significance of the initiative, revealing that nearly 29% of Australians cite the BBQ as their favourite volunteer role. Nominations are currently open and will close on 16 August 2026. Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today! . One New Zealand Warriors are significantly expanding their commercial and retail footprint... New Zealand Cricket has officially announced the revival of the Youth Fast... Digital sports entertainment and gaming leader DraftKings has announced an agreement with Amazon's... Join the most engaged community in the Sports Business World. Get all the latest news, insights, data, education and event updates. Your MVP in the Business of Sport. We play the game to add value to the Sports Business industry by delivering News, Insights, Education and Events. Join the most engaged community in the sports business world. Want to be part of the team? Subscribe for free to join today! Copyright © 2026 | Ministry of Sport | All Rights Reserved.
Curated by Taleb Kabbara · Source: ministryofsport.com