San Francisco 49ers get behind Aussie tradition at Bunnings sausage sizzle

Fans, customers and local families were treated to a special appearance by the San Francisco 49ers at Port Melbourne on Saturday, with past players, the 'Gold Rush' cheerleaders and mascot 'Sourdough Sam' getting behind an Aussie weekend tradition - the Bunnings sausage sizzle.

The four-time Super Bowl champions supported Ripponlea Kindergarten, which hosted the fundraiser, while giving fans and customers the chance to meet 49ers personalities ahead of the historic game against the Los Angeles Rams at the MCG in Melbourne on Friday 11 September, the first-ever NFL regular season clash on Australian soil.

Former 49ers stars Jesse Sapolu, Joe Nedney and Ian Williams were there alongside the cheerleaders to help kindergarten parents cook snags, serve customers, take photos and get a first-hand look at a much-loved community tradition down under.

The visit also marked the launch of the 49ers' Foodie Passport Program, encouraging travelling fans and locals to explore some of Melbourne's best food destinations and local icons in the lead up to the game, including the Bunnings ritual.