Local Footy Volunteer Crowned One Of Australia’s ‘Legends Of The Tongs’

North Mackay Saints volunteer Louise Goss has been recognised as a local ‘Legend of the Tongs’ for her four years of dedication to grassroots football and the club community. Photo supplied

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North Mackay Saints AFC volunteer Louise Goss has been recognised for her dedication to grassroots football, being named one of Australia’s local ‘Legends of the Tongs’ as part of a national search.

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For the past four years, Louise has played an important role behind the scenes at North Mackay Saints AFC, helping keep the club running and supporting its players and families.

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Her involvement has included working as youth coordinator, Under 17s team manager, sports trainer and canteen volunteer.

With her husband coaching and her children playing, Louise has embraced the Saints’ family-focused culture and chosen to contribute wherever she is needed.

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She said she believes every child should have the opportunity to play the game they love.

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The Saints have built a strong community around making sure players have a place at the club, with every age group valued and dedicated junior presentation nights introduced.

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While recruiting volunteers remains an ongoing challenge, the club continues to rely on a strong team effort to support local families and keep football thriving.

The recognition comes as the senior men’s team chases a sixth consecutive premiership, highlighting the contribution of the volunteers who help make opportunities on the field possible.

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Bunnings Mackay North Complex Manager, Neil Foord, said Louise’s contribution went well beyond the BBQ.

“From firing up the BBQ to coordinating volunteers and fundraising efforts, volunteers like Louise are the heart and soul of community sport,” Neil said.

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“Louise is the person who makes things happen, organising junior teams, supporting volunteers and helping deliver successful fundraising events for her club. Her tireless work behind the scenes helps create opportunities for young players and strengthens the entire club community.”

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“It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to give back to clubs like North Mackay Saints AFC with equipment that helps make a real difference for their volunteers,” Neil said.

As part of the recognition, the Saints will receive a BBQ prize pack valued at more than $585, including a Jumbuck 6 Burner BBQ and pop-up marquee.

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Louise is also in the running for a trip for two to attend the Toyota AFL Grand Final and the overall ‘Legend of the Golden Tongs’ title, which comes with $25,000 in products and materials for the winner’s club.

Bunnings Head of Community, Sponsorship and Events, Michelle Walter, said the initiative recognises the contribution of volunteers across grassroots AFL and AFLW.

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“Legend of the Tongs is all about recognising the heart of Australian rules football – the more than 200,000 volunteers who show up week in, week out to support their clubs,” said Walter.

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“Following a hugely successful first year, we’re proud to bring Legend of the Tongs back in 2026, delivering practical equipment and support that helps grassroots AFL and AFLW clubs focus on what matters most – their people and their community,” said Walter.

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Nominations were open until August 16th, with winners announced weekly.

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