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Event Information

Event Hosts & Special Guests

Shane Jacobson
Event Host

Shane Jacobson is one of Australia’s most loved actors, presenters and entertainers, known for his warmth, humour and unmistakable storytelling. Beyond his award-winning career, Shane is a proud supporter of causes close to his heart and one of the Western Bulldogs’ most recognisable celebrity fans. He proudly witnessed and celebrated the team’s historic, drought-breaking premiership victory in 2016. Shane brings heart, purpose and plenty of laughs as our event host.

Craig Willis
Segment Host

Craig Willis is a legendary Australian broadcaster famously recognized as the booming "voice of the AFL." His illustrious career spans introducing tennis champions at the Australian Open and calling multiple Olympic Games. Beyond his sporting achievements, he is deeply committed to philanthropy and community impact. He serves as a dedicated, long-term ambassador and supporter for Variety - the Children's Charity and has been awarded a Variety International Presidential Citation for his services.

Billy Brownless
Panel Host

Billy Brownless is a legendary Geelong Football Club forward who kicked 441 goals and became an iconic AFL cult hero. He famously booted a thrilling, after-the-siren goal in the 1994 finals to send the Cats into the Grand Final. His deep footy knowledge and boisterous larrikin personality made him a powerhouse mainstay on Triple M and Channel 9's The Sunday Footy Show.  An incredibly popular entertainer, Billy brings his signature warmth, sharp wit, and endless football stories to the event.

Mike Brady
Live Entertainment

Mike Brady AM is the iconic Australian singer-songwriter behind the legendary football anthem "Up There Cazaly," which became a historic chart-topper. Alongside his classic "One Day in September," his music remains a permanent, defining tradition of every AFL Grand Final. Beyond his musical legacy, he is widely celebrated for his philanthropy, having been honoured as a Life Member of Variety - the Children's Charity for his decades of dedicated service.

Annual Award Presentations

Tom hafey heart of football award

Variety – the Children’s Charity presents the Variety Heart of Football Award to an AFL/AFLW player who has inspired us through his or her selfless actions and dedication to children. In honour of AFL legend and Variety supporter, the late Tom Hafey, the award was renamed the Tom Hafey Variety Heart of Football Award in 2014.

Past recipients of the award include Scott Selwood, Robert Harvey, Eddie Betts, Emma Kearney,  Kate Darby and, most recently,Callan Ward in 2025.

See What Makes This Lunch So Special

Thank you to our 2026 Variety Grand Final Lunch Partners

Platinum Heart Partners

Gold Heart Partners

Silver Heart Partners