If the local football and netball club is the heart of a rural community, then Footy’s Favourite Farmer 2024 winner Greg Lumby is the beating pulse that shows Rutherglen is thriving.
Greg, who runs a cattle, sheep, and cropping farm in nearby Brimin, has won $10,000 worth of safety improvements tailored to his business and an additional $10,000 for safety upgrades at the Rutherglen Football Netball Club (RFNC), where he is President.
The annual competition, in collaboration with AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria, celebrates the unsung heroes and the unique role of sport in farming communities.
Greg is a well-respected farmer who has worked on the family property since his teenage years. He’s known for his leadership, dedication as a volunteer, and generosity in the local community.
His generosity shines through in his past contributions. In 2021, Greg and his wife Kaylene purchased adjacent land to donate over 4,000 square metres for a much-needed second netball court and additional car parking—an enduring gift for the club.
Greg has also dedicated countless hours volunteering, reflecting his belief in the importance of community support and safety both at the club and on the farm.
“It’s crucial that we can work safely and then enjoy a day at the footy or netball on Saturday,” Greg said. “WorkSafe’s support for footy netball clubs helps spread the safety message to workers and their families.”
WorkSafe Chief Executive Officer Joe Calafiore praised Greg’s dedication, highlighting the importance of workplace safety in building strong communities.
“Greg Lumby’s respect and influence in Rutherglen Football Netball Club and beyond show why safety at work matters. It’s all part of being connected in our communities, families, and friendships,” Mr Calafiore said.
For Greg, being named WorkSafe’s Footy’s Favourite Farmer is both an honour and a valuable chance to enhance safety on his farm and at the club.
“The $10,000 from WorkSafe is an incredible opportunity to assess and improve the safety of our farm operations,” Greg said.
Greg was selected from among several monthly winners, each receiving a farm safety pack valued at nearly $2,000, along with merchandise for their local clubs and nominators.
