The relationship between football and fundraising has been ongoing for years, and this weekend’s A-league match in Tasmania will be raising much needed funds for the Tasmanian Bushfire Appeal.

Melbourne Victory and FFA will donate $5 for every adult ticket, $3 for each concession and $1 for every child’s ticket sold to the Tasmanian Bushfire Fund, to help those affected by the tragedy that has impacted southern areas of Tasmania so terribly.

Melbourne Victory Managing Director, Richard Wilson said Victorians knew only too well the devastation bushfires can cause in the community.

“We’ve seen the tragic consequences of bushfires here in Victoria firsthand, with the affects of Black Saturday fires still being felt in our state,” Mr Wilson said.

“The way everyone around Australia came together to support Victorians through the tragedy was inspiring and I have no doubt the support will be there for those now impacted in areas like Carlton River, Boomer Bay and Dunalley as they try to recover from the destruction the fires have caused.

“Tasmania has been a part of Melbourne Victory for the past eight years, with the club playing games down there each year and we see it as an important part of our future.

“This gesture, with the FFA, is a way we can play a small part in assisting and this weekend’s match at Aurora Stadium is a great opportunity for local and interstate spectators at the game, to support those whose lives have been turned upside down by the fires.”

FFA CEO David Gallop has commended Melbourne Victory for the initiative of using the Launceston match this Saturday to raise funds.

“Our thoughts are with those people in Tasmania who have suffered the loss of property and belongings in the devastating bushfires,” said Gallop.

“On behalf of the football community across Australia, I send the message that the victims have our support in these difficult times.

There will also be an opportunity for people to further donate at the game, with volunteers collecting funds around Aurora Stadium on match day.