Andrew Walton
2 minutes
HBF has thrown its support behind soccer and rugby in Western Australia, assuming naming rights sponsorship of Perth’s premier
rectangular stadium, currently named nib Stadium.
A new agreement between HBF and VenuesWest, on behalf of the State Government, will see the home of Perth Glory and the Western
Force named HBF Park in the New Year.
HBF CEO, John Van Der Wielen, said as a high profile, member-based, Western Australian company, there was an expectation
that HBF would be a force for good in the local community.
“It’s a responsibility we’re glad to accept, and this support of one of WA’s most historic community assets reflects our
ongoing commitment to our home State,” Mr Van Der Wielen said.
The change in sponsorship follows a decision by nib to end its sponsorship of Perth Rectangular Stadium – the NSW-based insurer’s
most visible presence in Western Australia.
“This is a site where West Australians have played and competed for over one hundred years. We think it’s appropriate that
it carries the name of a proudly Western Australian organisation,” Mr Van Der Wielen said.
While the terms of the agreement were confidential Mr Van Der Wielen said the cost to HBF was modest compared to other corporate
sponsorships in WA.
“As an organisation that pays over $4 million every day in benefits to our members this really is a small outlay,” he said.
VenuesWest CEO David Etherton said he welcomes HBF’s support of this important venue in the State Government’s asset portfolio
and thanks them for their ongoing support of sport and health in this State.
“HBF’s existing support of VenuesWest facilities, HBF Stadium and HBF Arena, has seen a boost in the number of HBF members
using the facilities,” Mr Etherton said.