Sport
6 June, 2025
Tom Hawkins Boosts Beaufort in Memorable Day
The Beaufort community turned out in force on Saturday for a truly unforgettable day, as AFL star Tom Hawkins laced up for the Beaufort Crows in their senior clash against Hepburn.
The event, part of the Carlton Draft initiative, brought not only a footballing icon to town but also a crowd of around 2,000 people delivering a significant boost for both the club and the wider community.
Hawkins, a three-time AFL premiership forward with Geelong, and a Coleman Medalist, made an immediate impact on the field, kicking four goals and leading the Crows to a commanding 36-point win.
After a slow start, Beaufort stormed home in the second half, securing a 14.9.93 to 8.9.57 victory over Hepburn.
“It was an unbelievable day,” said Beaufort Football Netball Club president Nick Franc.
“The crowd was brilliant. It was big, but not overwhelming and comfortable.”
The Carlton Draft, now in its fourth year, aims to shine a spotlight on grassroots football, driving crowd attendance and providing essential financial support to regional clubs.
Over 150 clubs applied for this year’s draft, with Beaufort selected as one of just five lucky recipients.
Franc described the event as “sort of like a reunion,” with former players and supporters returning to the club and the community turning out in full voice. He credited the club’s committee for the day’s success.
“There was a lot of work in the planning. The committee put in countless hours to make it happen, and we haven’t had a single piece of negative feedback. It’s all been positive,” Franc said.
“The Carlton Draft organisers said it was one of the best days they’ve seen in terms of organisation and support. That’s a credit to everyone involved.”
Hawkins didn’t just make his presence felt on the scoreboard; he also left a lasting impression off the field. Arriving around 11:30am, he stayed until 9:00pm, mingling with fans, signing autographs, and participating in a Q&A session with attendees.
“Tom is such a good person,” Franc said.
“He made time for everyone and brought so much energy and excitement to the club.”
While the club benefited financially, Franc emphasised the broader benefits for Beaufort.
“It wasn’t just about the club, it was for the whole community,” he said.
“People came to town, shopped locally, visited the market. The exposure Beaufort’s had in the national press has been huge.”
Saturday’s match wasn’t just a win on the scoreboard. It was a celebration of community spirit, hard work, and the power of local footy to bring people together.
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