To die for: Bronco make bizarre fan request

It’s the club that footy fans are dying to get into. Brisbane are the first NRL franchise to introduce a bequest programme that encourages supporters to leave a financial gift to the club in their last will and testament.

The Broncos are already one of the best-resourced clubs in Australian sport, as evidenced by their state-of-the art headquarters and the A$47 million (NZ$49m) it declared in assets or bank cash in its last financial report.

Officials hope ‘Broncos Forever’ ensures the club remains at the forefront by providing diehard fans a chance to contribute beyond the grave.

Bequest schemes are common in the AFL and the Broncos spoke to several of the dozen Australian Rules clubs already sourcing funds in that manner. Club legends Darren Lockyer and Corey Parker have made personal pledges and have been joined by four other supporters since the soft launch of the programme just over a year ago.

‘‘The majority of clubs in the AFL have well-established bequest programmes, and we wanted to give our supporters a similar opportunity through the Broncos Forever programme,’’ a Broncos spokesman said.

‘‘We actively encourage supporters to look after their family and friends in the first instance when considering a bequest to the club. We also recommend those looking to make a bequest discuss it with their relatives and loved ones, as well as seeking legal, taxation and financial advice.

‘‘Any contributions are used to support the club’s expanding community programmes that help school children across Queensland and northern NSW; provide resources for game development programmes to help grass-roots rugby league and junior footy; as well as providing improved facilities for players.

‘‘We are thankful, honoured and humbled by the bequests we have received to date – it is a mark of the passion Broncos fans have for their club.’’

The Broncos are one of the few NRL clubs consistently in the black, a powerhouse with 35,000 members and an attractive proposition for blue-chip sponsors.

However, it hasn’t prevented several loyal fans from joining the unique initiative.

Leilani Van Schouwen, Daniel Carmichael and Vic and Belinda Raven have pledged to continue to support the side after their passing.

Brisbane have even provided suggested wording for wills to prospective members, who are provided benefits including a lapel pin, an exclusive memento and their name on an honour board in the foyer of the Clive Berghofer Centre at Red Hill.

All money bequeathed goes towards game training equipment, grassroots development and other initiatives that will give the team an edge.