AFL unveil State of Origin Sherrin

The AFL today unveiled the Official match ball of the State of Origin Bushfire Relief game this afternoon at CFA Headquarters with representatives from emergency service organisations; Country Fire Authority, Victoria State Emergency Service and Forest Fire Management Victoria.

The unique orange leather has been specifically crafted for by Sherrin for the State of Origin Bushfire Relief game, inspired by the iconic orange worn by the SES volunteers and service people. 

In a fitting tribute, the match ball features two panels which details the 230 football clubs from fire affected communities, as well 36 Auskick centres, alongside the Big V and All-Star logos.

The commemorative ball was unveiled at CFA’s Burwood Headquarters, with Penny Hagan, SES Volunteer at the Glen Eira SES unit who was deployed to Swifts Creek as part of fire support and Emma Proctor, from the FFMV Emergency Preparedness team who has completed several deployments this year.

Penny Hagan, SES Volunteer said it’s an honour to be able to have served her community during the summer months and is humbled by the gesture of the tribute match ball.

“The orange Sherrin a really nice gesture. The ball showcases just how many football communities have been affected across Australia, with so many more outside of this list.

The SES is just one of a number of emergency service agencies that have contributed to the bushfire effort in recent months but as an SES volunteer, I have to say I’m partial to the colour.” Ms. Hagan said.

For this Friday night’s State of Origin for Bushfire Relief game, Sherrin have partnered with the AFL to donate over 1000 Footballs for the game, with a retail value of more than $30,000.

Sherrin’s Marketing Director, Naomi Maclean, said the brand was committed to be a part of the rebuild for many local communities.

“Like many others, we are deeply moved, saddened and impacted by the destruction caused by bush fires across Australia. Much of the region impacted is part of Sherrin’s heartland in Football where we have local partnerships and where local footy teams form the fabric of our communities.”

Sherrin is selling the Bushfire Game Balls on sherrin.com.au, with 100% of proceeds going to the Community Relief Fund set up by the AFL, to support the local communities in fire affected areas. Balls will also be available at Marvel Stadium on the night of the game, where proceeds will also be donated.

Bushfire game ball in production

Names of footy clubs impacted by bushfire

The Official Game Ball of the State of Origin Bushfire game

Bushfire Relief Game Ball