A football club in Melbourne’s west has raised more than $107,000 after its president took on a 24-hour goal-kicking marathon. 

Williamstown Superules Football Club hosted the Kick for Charity fundraiser, which saw President Matthew Walsh kick 2379 goals from 12pm on Friday March 27 to 12pm on Saturday March 28.

Walsh said the cause was close to the club’s heart, with proceeds to be distributed between Outside The Locker Room, Rule Prostate Cancer, My Room Children’s Cancer Charity and Down Syndrome Victoria.  

 “We’ve raised money for these four charities for a few years now,” Walsh said.  

 “They’ve been a massive part of our footy club, so they all have a special meaning to members.” 

It comes as not-for-profit organisations face mounting financial pressure, with the cost-of-living crisis driving up operational expenses and reducing Australians’ disposable income.  

According to data presented at Fundraising Institute Australia’s 2025 conference, 80 per cent of Australians contribute less than one per cent of their annual income to charitable causes. 

As a result, sector leaders warn that not-for-profit organisations are struggling to meet demand and maintain essential services without external support. 

Margaret Zita, the chief executive officer of My Room Children’s Cancer Charity, said the proceeds from these community-led fundraisers played an integral role in keeping organisations like her’s running. 

 “The funds that were raised from this event will be able to help our families meet everyday expenses and allow frontline medical and allied health teams to continue vital care. It also supports research which drives better outcomes and brings us closer to a cure,” Zita said. 

“With the cost-of-living pressures rising and funding becoming increasingly stretched, fundraising events such as Kick for Charity are really important to us.” 

Event organiser and Williamstown Superules committee member Emma Kirkham said the initiative was the result of six months of hard work and the efforts of more than 50 volunteers. 

The event had widespread support from local residents and club members, who attended throughout the 24-hour period despite heavy rain. 

“It’s a very emotional moment to have reached over the $100,000 mark because that was the goal that we all really wanted to get to,” Kirkham said.  

“I’m super proud of our club and everyone that got behind it and donated to these four incredible charities that will make a massive difference.” 

Kirkham said the idea for the fundraiser emerged from a conversation she shared with Walsh back in 2025, as they explored new ways for the club to engage with the community and support local causes. 

Walsh said he was drawn to using football as a platform to give back and drive positive change. 

“I’m not really a marathon runner but I’ve been playing footy for over 30 years,” he said. “It just seemed like something I could do.” 

Kick for Charity continued to accept late donations through its website until Sunday, April 12.