Bayleys Southland has joined forces with the Ascot Park Hotel Southern Steel with the aim of supporting netball’s development in the south.

The real estate agency has been announced as the latest associate partner for the franchise for an initial term spanning the 2025 and 2026 ANZ Premiership seasons.

Bayleys Southland general manager Tarl Barnes said it was an exciting collaboration.

“Supporting our community is at the heart of our culture here at Bayleys and this is a fantastic opportunity to connect with one of Southland’s leading sporting codes,” she said.

“Our commitment is from the grassroots to the elite level of the game and it will be great to see the influence our investment can have, particularly in the youth space where the Steel players are such positive role models.”

Women’s sport continued to smash barriers in the modern era and Barnes was proud Bayleys could play a role locally.

“Our female athletes truly are excellent ambassadors and it’s important to get behind them so they can continue to achieve and inspire the next generation,” she said. Sport remained a key part of the psyche in the deep south.

“Like so many organisations, we have plenty of sports mad people in the ranks here at Bayleys. We’re a competitive bunch and I wouldn’t be surprised to see a social netball team emerge soon,” Barnes quipped.

“We often say Bayleys can find buyers others can’t reach so there’s definitely a nice tie-in given the height of some of the Steel players.”

Steel chief executive Sonya Fleming said the partnership would bring a new dynamic.

“We are thrilled to welcome Bayleys into our Steel family. Our organisations share strong synergy and shared values,” she said.

“Our partnership is already in motion, with plans for a Pink Ribbon Breakfast and many more exciting collaborations ahead.”

For Barnes, it was another chance to lend vital support.

“The Pink Ribbon Breakfast is something that’s really important to us. With the Steel players in attendance, it just helps elevate the event further and we certainly hope to raise a great amount to help such a worthwhile charity.”