Posted by Hopwood Wendy
Date: 17th February 2026
Stawell Gift Event Management is proud to welcome Krause Bricks as a new sponsor of the Powercor Stawell Gift for 2026, strengthening the connection between one of Australia’s most iconic sporting events and a business deeply rooted in the local community.
Krause Bricks is a family-owned brickmaker with a three-generation legacy of producing artisan products that define the Australian architectural landscape. Known for firing rich Australian clay using traditional methods, Krause Bricks has supplied its distinctive products to countless high-end architectural projects across Australia and overseas.
The 80-year-old business will sponsor the prestigious Invitational Backmarkers 120m, a feature race held on Easter Monday between the Powercor Stawell Gift (men’s final) and the Powercor Women’s Gift final. The race, which honours the memory of Chris Perry – the 1982 Stawell Gift winner who helped break down the barrier between professional and amateur athletics – has long been a highlight of the programme, showcasing elite speed and providing a thrilling bridge between the finals of the carnival’s two headline races.
The partnership reflects a shared history in Stawell. General Manager Rohan Hine said the event is the heartbeat of the town and aligns naturally with the heritage of Krause Bricks, which has operated in Stawell since 1945.
“The Stawell Gift is a source of great local pride. The Krause family has called Stawell home for generations, and the grit and unique character of this region is ingrained in our craft. We are proud to align the Krause legacy with an event that shines a light on our home town and shares our commitment to hard work and tradition,” said Rohan.
Through the sponsorship, Krause Bricks hopes to highlight the vital role manufacturing plays in the regional economy, while benefiting from the cross-promotion that comes with being associated with one of Australia’s most recognised sporting events.
Rohan relocated to Stawell from Brisbane in 2021 to join Krause Bricks. “Moving here was an opportunity to reconnect with the region and work within a dynamic manufacturing business. The architecture of Stawell tells a story of endurance. At Krause, we continue that narrative, finding beauty in the raw, kiln-fired imperfections that give our bricks their unmistakable soul.”
“During a period of increasing industrial consolidation, Krause Bricks is evidence that a fiercely independent, hardworking and customer-focused business can succeed. From our signature Emperor bricks to bespoke textures, we are proud to bring a piece of regional Victoria to the world’s finest buildings.”
The connection between Krause Bricks and the Gift is also personal. Employee Noah Lyons, a Stawell-based amateur athlete, has competed in the Gift for the past eight years. Noah joined Krause Bricks in 2022 and works as an extruder operator at the company’s Plant 2 factory. Krause Bricks proudly supports his athletic pursuits, with Noah representing the values of community health and local pride that underpin both the business and the event.
Below: Klynton Krause, Managing Director
Posted by Hopwood Wendy
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