Melbourne-based brokerage McLardy McShane has announced a partnership with AFL team Melbourne Demons for the next two years.

The announcement unites former Melbourne Demons president Don McLardy, co-founder and CEO of the brokerage, with the club he headed for five years.

Mr McLardy says the partnership expands on a “base connection” he and fellow co-founder Mike McShane have established with the club.

“We look forward to working closely with the Melbourne Football Club and providing a general insurance broking and advisory service to the broader MFC community,” Mr McLardy said.

“We already have many existing Demon clients and we are very excited about this partnership, that formalises an already long-standing relationship between Melbourne and McLardy McShane Insurance Brokers.”

Mr McLardy tells insuranceNEWS.com.au that the agreement provides the brokerage with notable benefits, including access to the team’s internal services, function rooms and leadership development program and represents “the next step” for the McLardy McShane brand across the country.

“We’ve got a significant presence in Victoria, NSW, Queensland and WA, which are all notable AFL centres, and as we continue to build our brand around the country, we felt this was a good way to invest in a bit of brand reinforcement,” Mr McLardy said.

He noted strong relationships with club coach Simon Goodwin as well as star player Max Gawn, who is a client.

“We’re connected to key people there, so it’s really a natural step for us,” Mr McLardy said. “If we can win a flag as well that will be fantastic.”

Melbourne Demons CEO Gary Pert says he is proud to welcome the brokerage just days ahead of the team’s start to the new season.

“Don and Mike have been long-time members and major contributors of the club, so we’re really proud to formally welcome McLardy McShane as an official partner,” Mr Pert said.

“Both Don and Mike have had immense impact over a number of years, and it’s great to have their further support ahead of an exciting year.”