Bunnings is celebrating another local footy club hero, with Phil Beaman from Ellenbrook Senior FC being crowned one of Australia’s local BBQ legends as part of its nationwide Legend of the Tongs search, which recognises the volunteers who keep Aussie rules footy clubs running, one snag at a time.
Now in its second year, the Legend of the Tongs shines a spotlight on the dedicated community members who show up week in, week out throughout the AFL and AFLW season, helping bring local footy to life both on and off the field.
This week’s recognition celebrates Phil Beaman’s unwavering dedication to his club and the vital role he plays in creating a positive impact each week in their community.
For more than 20 years, Phil Beaman has been a driving force behind Ellenbrook Senior Football Club, progressing from player and coach to assistant coach and welfare officer.
Alongside helping with BBQs and supporting the committee, Phil is passionate about mentoring young players and creating a family-first environment where mental health and wellbeing are just as important as football.
Through charity initiatives, mental health events and an inclusive club culture, Ellenbrook has become a place where everyone belongs. Despite the challenges faced by many community clubs, Phil believes it’s the dedication of volunteers that continues to create opportunities for young people to build confidence, friendships and a lifelong connection to the game.
As part of the prize, Ellenbrook Senior FC will receive a BBQ prize pack valued over $585, including a Jumbuck 6 Burner BBQ and a Bunnings pop-up marquee.
Phil Beaman is also now in the running to score a trip for two to attend the Toyota AFL Grand Final, and be crowned the overall ‘Legend of the Golden Tongs’, winning $25,000 in Bunnings products and materials for their club.
The competition forms part of Bunnings’ 12th year in partnership with the AFL and runs across 18 weeks of the 2026 AFL season, recognising grassroots volunteers across both AFL and AFLW communities.
Bunnings Ellenbrook Complex Manager, Skye Morris, said the Legend of the Tongs initiative is about celebrating the people who make local footy possible. “From firing up the BBQ to supporting players on and off the field, volunteers like Phil are the heart and soul of community sport,” she said. “Whether it’s mentoring young players, promoting mental health or helping build a stronger community through football, Phil’s commitment extends far beyond game day. His passion for supporting others makes a lasting impact.”
“It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to give back to clubs like Ellenbrook Senior FC with equipment that helps make a real difference for their volunteers,” she said.
Bunnings Head of Community, Sponsorship and Events, Michelle Walter, said the initiative celebrates the people who make local footy possible.
“Legend of the Tongs is all about recognising the heart of Australian rules football – the more than 200,000 volunteers who show up week in, week out to support their clubs,” said Walter. “Following a hugely successful first year, we’re proud to bring Legend of the Tongs back in 2026, delivering practical equipment and support that helps grassroots AFL and AFLW clubs focus on what matters most – their people and their community,” said Walter.
The recognition comes as Bunnings research from 2025 highlights the essential role of BBQ, canteen and other food services volunteers in shaping club culture, with almost one in three (29 per cent) Australians saying their favourite volunteer role is firing up the barbie.
As part of the 2026 campaign:
• Each week, five ‘legends’ and their local club will win a BBQ prize pack valued at over $585
• Eight shortlisted winners will score a trip for two to attend the Toyota AFL Grand Final, with some selected via a new public “community choice” vote
• One overall winner will be crowned the ‘Legend of the Golden Tongs’, winning $25,000 in Bunnings products and materials for their local club Nominations are now open, with winners announced weekly. Entries close on 16 August 2026.
Know a BBQ legend? Nominate your local footy club’s Legend of the Tongs at bunnings.com.au/legends.
