The WorkSafe Victorian Country Football League and the Victorian Government have joined forces to raise awareness of Gambler's Help services and encourage young men in country football to gamble responsibly.

The VCFL is highlighting gambling messages through regional and rural Victoria as a partner in Responsible Gambling Week - culminating with an Awareness Round this weekend (May 19/20) across the state. The partnership will deliver responsible and problem gambling messages directly to young men in country football, who statistically are at greater risk of developing gambling problems.

CEO of the WorkSafe VCFL, Steven Reaper, said that the impacts of problem gambling can be particularly severe in country and regional communities,
"The Victorian Country Football League sees its role as a community and sporting leader and recognises the impact problem gambling has on the community. "It is estimated that for every person that has a gambling problem, another seven people are adversely affected - their partners, parents, friends and siblings", said Reaper.

"Many people like a punt, but the important message we need to get through to young people at football clubs is to set a limit and stick to it, and for anyone who is starting to feel that gambling is getting a hold on them to talk about the issue with a mate or Gamblers Help.

As a key part of the new partnership, ex Melbourne Demon and now Mallee Eagles coach, Daniel Ward will present the personal perils and pitfalls of problem gambling to local football clubs. Daniel has had a well publicised battle with a gambling addiction, and is using his experiences to mentor young men in the football community.

Daniel will next visit the Melton South FNC as part of this education program. "Young men are particularly vulnerable to risky gambling behaviour, more likely to take up interactive technologies and online betting, and less likely to seek help when they get in trouble, "said Reaper We want to communicate to our supporters and the broader community to gamble responsibly and keep their gambling in control."