The Gold Coast SUNS are calling on Australians to support Virgin Australia now and into the future after the airline announced it will enter voluntary administration because of COVID-19.

SUNS CEO Mark Evans said Virgin Australia has been a club partner since the very start.

“The SUNS want to recognise the incredible contribution of Virgin Australia to our club, the AFL and the tourism industry, especially on the Gold Coast,” he said.

“Virgin Australia has stood by our club as a partner from day one and we will continue to stand by them during this incredibly challenging time.”

Captain David Swallow said his thoughts are with the thousands of staff who he described as professional and passionate. 

“The team at Virgin Australia have looked after us in an incredibly professional manner since we first became an AFL club,” he said. 

“They have taken us, and so many people, to all parts of Australia and the world and I want to say thanks and recognise their hard work and great attitude. 

“To all Virgin Australia staff I want to say that the SUNS family are thinking of you and your family and that you have our full support.” 

Mr Evans said Virgin Australia has been brilliant for the Gold Coast economy, the SUNS family and other tourist destinations and that millions of Australians have benefited from having this airline. 

“To Virgin Australia management and all staff I want to say thank-you and hang in there because we all need you,” he said. 

“I urge Australians to get behind Virgin Australia because they are a loyal and important business for our country.”