North East farmer Greg Lumby has been named WorkSafe Victoria’s Footy’s Favourite Farmer for 2024, securing $20,000 in safety enhancements — split between improvements for his own farm and safety upgrades for his local club, the Rutherglen Football Netball Club.

Greg, from Brimin, runs a mixed cattle, sheep and cropping operation and was chosen as the overall winner from the field of monthly finalists.

As winner, he receives $10,000 worth of tailored safety improvements for his farm, plus $10,000 in safety upgrades for the Rutherglen Football Netball Club, where he is President.

The annual Footy’s Favourite Farmer competition — run in collaboration with AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria — celebrates the connection between farming, volunteering and grassroots sport in rural communities.

WorkSafe said Greg is a highly respected farmer, known for his leadership and generous volunteer work in the community. In 2021, Greg and his wife Kaylene purchased land adjacent to the club’s facilities and donated more than 4,000 sqm for a second netball court and extra parking — a contribution that will benefit the club for years to come.

Reflecting on the award, Greg said safety both on the farm and at the club is a top priority. He highlighted the importance of ensuring people return home safely from work so they can enjoy community events like football and netball on weekends.

WorkSafe’s Chief Executive praised Greg’s contribution, underscoring how volunteers like him demonstrate the importance of workplace safety — so people can continue to participate in community life.

Greg was selected from several monthly winners, who each received a farm safety pack valued at almost $2,000, along with merchandise packs for their local club and the people who nominated them.