General News
9 April, 2026
Brownlow Medallist a Tiger for the day
Nhill’s season opener is set to be huge with AFL star Tom Mitchell pulling on the navy and gold for the Tigers to mark the grand opening of Davis Park’s new facilities and a celebration of club history.
Nhill is set for an unforgettable Saturday as the beloved Tigers roar back to action.
The club returns to action Saturday, hosting Southern Mallee Thunder in round one of the Wimmera Football Netball League, 30 weeks after their 2025 preliminary final loss.
Pulling on the navy blue and gold for the first time will be Tom Mitchell; the 32-year-old might be a bit rusty, having not played football since 2022.
However, he does boast 207 AFL games with Sydney, Hawthorn and Collingwood, as well as the 2018 Brownlow Medal.
Mitchell will play six regional games, including Nhill, as part of AIA Australia’s ‘Do It For Life’ campaign, which began at Greensborough on Good Friday.
As an AIA Australia ambassador, Mitchell’s return to grassroots football brings the campaign to life by highlighting the role local clubs play in keeping Australians active, connected and well.
“Getting back to country footy is something I’ve really missed. It keeps you fit, keeps you grounded, and it’s great for your overall wellbeing, not just physically, but mentally too,” he said.
“Local clubs give people routine, connection and a real sense of belonging. That’s one of the reasons why they matter so much to so many.”
AIA Australia chief executive Damien Mu said the partnership was one of the insurer’s latest
steps to highlight the important role that grassroots sports have on the physical and
mental health of the Australian community.
“Grassroots sporting clubs inspire people in more ways than one,” he said.
“They bring players, volunteers, families and fans together for moments of connection and provide a sense of direction and purpose for many.
“These clubs are often the pillar of the community and rely heavily on volunteers.
“We’re proud to support Tom as he returns to local footy and shines a light on the people behind the clubs− the people who Do it for Life.”
The event will also mark the grand opening of Davis Park’s new $1.5 million grandstand and changerooms.
The grandstand features 147 seats, including an all-abilities accessible ramp and seating areas, a large media room overlooking the oval and a corporate room.
The changerooms feature two large changeroom areas, each with a modern shower room, cubicles and a trainer’s room.
To celebrate the milestone, past players from the Nhill and District Sporting Club’s football, netball and hockey teams are invited to join the celebrations.
Thunder fans will be wary of the Tigers' new addition; in 2022, Collingwood premiership player Dale ‘Daisy’ Thomas helped Nhill break a 1000-day winless streak against the then-Southern Mallee Giants.
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