Kwinana Knights President David Acker recognised as Bunnings Legend of the Tongs

Kwinana Knights Football Club President David Acker has been announced as the Bunnings 'Legend of the Tongs'.

The initiative, in partnership with the AFL, is a nationwide search to reward and celebrate the local legends who fire up the barbeque weekly at their local Aussie rules football clubs. 

Originally from Colorado, David began volunteering with the Kwinana Knights 15 years ago as a way to encourage his son to get involved and also to get to know his community.

Despite knowing very little about the sport, David quickly became embedded in the club and credits his involvement in helping him to build relationships and friendships that are really important to him. 

David’s standout moment is his involvement in the inception of the women’s team, which the club had tried and failed to start previously.

His full circle moment came when he got the chance to coach his daughter.

As part of the prize, Kwinana Knights Football Club will receive a barbeque prize pack, including a Jumbuck 6 Burner BBQ and a Bunnings pop-up marquee – with David also in the running to score a trip for two to attend the Toyota AFL Grand Final as well as the opportunity to be named ‘Legend of the Golden Tongs’ and win $25,000 in Bunnings products and materials for their club.  

The competition, which is part of Bunnings’ 11th year in partnership with the AFL, honours the incredible contributions of community volunteers across Australia during the 2025 AFL season. 

Bunnings Rockingham Complex Manager Kellie Reay said she is proud the store can give back to local clubs, with the support of the AFL.

“Our Legend of the Tongs campaign celebrates the some of the bests part of our local community. Whether it’s at their local club grounds or as part of our weekly sausage sizzles, unsung heroes like David tirelessly show up week in and week out to support their players and raise much needed funds for their clubs," Kellie said.

“We feel privileged to be able to gift the Kwinana Knights Football Club with improved equipment to support their volunteers where it matters."

Nominations for Legend of the Tongs remain open until August 24, 2025.

Know someone you think is a barbeque legend? Nominate your football club’s Legend of the Tongs at bunnings.com.au/legends.