Country Rivals Unite for a Cause Close to Home
For the Hummocks Watchman Eagles and long-time rivals, the Balaklava Peckers, things can get fiercely competitive when the whistle blows.
But this weekend, the neighbouring football and netball clubs are putting rivalry aside – coming together for a cause far bigger than premiership points.
Round 4 will be about unity, support, and raising awareness for battles hitting close to home -neuroblastoma and breast cancer.
Players will be sporting pink armbands, yellow balls will be used on the field and court. There’ll be pink and yellow cupcakes and cookies, and hair braiding and bracelet making happening on the sidelines.
A special guard of honour will take place before the A1 netball match, with nine-year-old Holly Zerk presenting the match ball.
Holly’s Fight Inspires a Community
Holly has been bravely battling neuroblastoma since her diagnosis in June 2023 – and has recently faced the devastating setback of a relapse.
In July 2024, Holly and her family were given a lifeline when the Australian Government approved access to DFMO — a groundbreaking treatment not previously available in Australia.
For Holly, her family, and the wider community, seeing her regain strength and return to school and sport brought plenty of smiles and hope.
Now, the fight has taken another turn.
Her parents, Lee-Anne McCracken and Travis Zerk, continue to advocate – not just for Holly, but for other Australian children. They’re calling for the Federal Government to fund CAR-T cell therapy in Australia, a treatment they hope will offer another life-saving chance.
Standing Strong Through Breast Cancer
Kirsty Williams and Sonja Gangell are also facing their own battles with breast cancer.
Sonja was diagnosed with aggressive stage three breast cancer in 2025 and is still undergoing treatment, having already faced a double mastectomy. For Kirsty, the journey is just beginning.
A passionate Hummocks Watchman Eagle, Kirsty is a life member of the club. With netball in her veins, she’s coached, umpired, held multiple positions with the club, and has plans to get back into the goal ring after her cancer treatment.
“More Than Footy and Netball”
“Our clubs are full of amazing people, but unfortunately cancer doesn’t discriminate,” – a combined message from both clubs presidents read.
“This is about more than footy and netball, it’s about awareness, support and standing together for those who have fought, those still fighting and those we’ve lost.”
Hummocks vs Balaklava
WHEN: Saturday May 9 8.30-5pm
WHERE: Balaklava Oval
