From the Network: Gympie Turf Club

Gympie turf club - Sponsorships

What they do differently

Gympie Turf Club takes a relationship-first approach, focusing on understanding what each sponsor wants and building tailored partnerships around it.

What Works?

Relationship-led approach

• Sponsors are engaged personally, not just pitched to
• Focus on understanding sponsor goals before proposing anything
• Long-term relationships are prioritised over one-off deals

Tailored sponsorship offers

• Proposals are customised to each sponsor
• Clearly outline value including audience reach, exposure, and opportunities
• Include a mix of branding, hospitality, and activations

How they deliver value

• Naming rights opportunities (including individual races)
• On-course activations and brand presence
• Private functions for sponsor guests
• Exposure across social media, print, and radio

Key principle:
Exposure should feel meaningful and experienced, not just seen.

How they review and improve

• Post-event feedback is gathered from sponsors
• Long-term relationships provide ongoing insight into what works
• Feedback is used to refine future sponsorship offerings

How they drive sponsor engagement

• “100 Club” corporate membership (limited to 100 businesses)
• Access to exclusive events (season launch, luncheons, EOFY, Christmas)
• Complimentary race day access for sponsors and their guests
• Strong focus on networking and shared experiences

Planning and approach

• Clear proposals set expectations early
• Value is communicated upfront and delivered consistently
• Sponsors are integrated into the broader club experience, not treated as add-ons

What other clubs should take from this

• Build relationships before selling sponsorships
• Tailor proposals to what the sponsor actually wants
• Offer a mix of exposure, experience, and engagement
• Follow up after events and actively seek feedback
• Create opportunities for sponsors to be involved, not just visible
• Use memberships or networks to strengthen long-term connections

Strong sponsorships come from understanding your partners and delivering real value, not just selling space or signage.