Port Power trio named in the line-up for Jamestown-Peterborough’s v Broughton-Mundoora this weekend
There’s a bit of buzz building in the Mid North this week – and it’s not just the sound of air seeders kicking up dust. This Saturday, Jamestown-Peterborough Magpies will welcome three former Port Adelaide stars – Tom Jonas, Justin Westhoff, and John Butcher – to take on reigning premiers Broughton-Mundoora.
Although the Magpies are yet to notch up a win this season, this weekend’s game is not just about chasing premiership points. With drought biting hard across the region, this weekend’s clash is about rallying together and giving the whole community something to smile about.
Former Port captain, Tom Jonas, has already been working with the club through Bloom Leadership, attending a pre-season training session for players across all grades, while Australian Netballer, Natalie von Bertouch, has also been working with the club’s netballers.
“Sport’s the ultimate connector of people,” Jonas said. “Whether it’s the footy or netball clubs – they’re the lifeblood. While a win would be great, it’s more about the morale boost for the whole community. We don’t necessarily need a win to do that.”
No stranger to the spirit of country footy – Jonas does admit he’s a bit of a “wanna be country boy”. He recently lined up with his brother in a game for Whyalla, and this weekend will be the first time he’s played alongside Westhoff and Butcher since 2016. “They’re both country boys at heart, so it wasn’t hard to get them on board,” he said.
Jonas, who went to Rostrevor College with magpies’ vice-president Brayden Callisto, said he just wanted to get around his mate and his community, and he’s bringing a whole bunch of Rostrevor boys with him, as well as some big ticket AFL auction memorabilia. “It’s great to see the Jamestown community rallying to put on a huge event this Saturday,” he said.
Brayden Callisto couldn’t agree more. “The farmers have been doing it tough, and that transfers right through the community,” he said. “Days like this are a good reason to get together, take our minds off things, and hopefully have a bit of fun on and off the park.”
Kicking off with junior games from 9am, the A Grade match will start just after 2pm, followed by club teas and a Sportsman’s Night featuring a Q&A with the Port trio and both live and silent auctions. Justin Westhoff will also be showcasing some of his Barossa Valley wine from Forage Supply Co.
