Workplace safety key to on field success as AFL season kicks off in Katherine

A new season of football returns to Katherine when Round 1 of the NT WorkSafe Big Rivers Football League kicks off at Nitmiluk Oval on Friday 5 May.

​All eyes will be on the final game of the round when the Eastside Blues start their title defence against the Katherine South Crocs, as the reigning premiers look for a record breaking fifth consecutive flag.

​Executive Director Stephen Gelding said NT WorkSafe was proud to be the naming rights sponsor for the Big Rivers AFL competition for a second year.

"AFL is part of community life in the Katherine Region and being naming rights sponsor is a way of raising awareness of work health and safety with the players and wider community," Mr Gelding said.

"The majority of players in the Big Rivers competition have jobs, and getting injured at work would have an impact on their season."

Mr Gelding said that Northern Territory workers compensation data showed a large proportion of claims were from males aged between 15 and 35.

"The Eastside Blues have in their playing squad, a panel beater, a plumber and an electrician; occupations that face a number of hazards in their day to day activities," Mr Gelding said.

"Coach Greg Bain will hope his players not only maintain their form and fitness throughout the season, but work in a safe manner to avoid being injured at work."

"My message to all the clubs and players is to play hard and work safe, because injuries can happen off the field."