Kicking goals for cancer research
Chris Witchell and Blake Reed are counting down to their epic journey in the Shitbox Rally and continue to raise money for Cancer Research
Sponsor a Goal !
WHAT began as a fierce local rivalry clash between Woodside and Yarram in the North Gippsland Football Netball League quickly became a powerful show of community spirit and support for cancer research on Saturday.
Woodside reserves teammates Blake Reed and Chris Witchell delivered a dominant performance on the field, combining for 19 goals in their side’s Round 7 contest. But beyond the scoreboard, every major kicked carried even greater significance.
The pair are preparing to take part in this year’s Shitbox Rally and have been running a “Sponsor a Goal” fundraiser, with supporters pledging donations for every goal they score during the season. With the importance of the local derby against Yarram, Reed and Witchell decided to double the stakes for the match.
The result was a remarkable fundraising effort, with each goal worth $150 and close to $3,000 raised in a single afternoon for the Cancer Council.
Reed booted 14 goals in a standout display, while Witchell added five of his own.
“It was one of those days where everything just came together,” Reed said.
“But more importantly, every goal meant more money going towards a cause that means so much to us.”
The fundraiser is deeply personal for both players. Their Shitbox Rally team, “The Witchity Grubs”, was named in honour of their late fathers — affectionately known as Witchy and Grub — who both lost their lives to cancer in their mid-50s.
“Losing our dads so young left a hole that can never be filled,” Witchell said.
“This is our way of giving back and trying to make a difference, even in a small way.”
The Shitbox Rally has become one of Australia’s largest grassroots fundraising events for cancer research, with teams driving cars worth $1,500 or less across some of the country’s toughest terrain while raising money for the Cancer Council.
Reed and Witchell will join around 250 teams when they depart on June 20 for the 2026 rally, tackling the demanding route from Mildura to Townsville.
The pair said the support from the local football community had been overwhelming and highlighted the ability of country sport to bring people together for an important cause.
“The support from the club, our families and the wider community has been incredible,” Reed said.
“To turn a local footy game into something that helps others — that’s what it’s all about.”
Just two more weeks to get behind this … sponsor a goal. Woodside play Churchill this week @ Churchill and then they have a bye, followed by Sale City at home on June 13
