AFL Barwon is thrilled to announce that Henry Buckley has been promoted to the VFL Development Squad for the 2025 season. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Henry’s umpiring journey and reflects his dedication, skill, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Capping off an outstanding 2024 season, Henry officiated the GFL Grand Final, demonstrating his ability to perform under high-pressure situations. His consistent excellence in game management, decision-making, and passion for the game has made him a standout within the AFL Barwon umpiring group. His hard work, both on and off the field, has been instrumental in earning his selection for the VFL Development Squad. 

The VFL Development Squad serves as a crucial stepping stone for umpires aiming to officiate at the highest levels of Australian Rules Football. Henry’s promotion is a testament to his potential and the strength of AFL Barwon’s umpiring pathway.

Images by Great Ocean Photography.

AFL Barwon Director of Football Umpiring Jock Hillgrove praised Henry’s progress:

“Henry has shown tremendous growth over the past few seasons. His work ethic, professionalism, and ability to adapt to the game at higher levels make him a well-deserving candidate for the VFL Development Squad. We’re excited to see him take this next step and continue developing as an elite umpire.”

Henry’s promotion also highlights the opportunities available for aspiring umpires within AFL Barwon. With a strong focus on development and coaching, the umpiring program continues to produce high-quality officials ready for the next level.

Congratulations to Henry Buckley on this fantastic achievement! We look forward to seeing him thrive in the VFL Development Squad and wish him all the best for the 2025 season.

AFL Barwon wishes to advise of several fixture changes for the 2025 season across both Bellarine & Geelong Football and Netball competitions.

Please see all the updated match times and dates below:

Twilight Matches for Colac in Round 0 and Round 3

Colac vs Bell Park (Round 0) will feature a twilight Senior Football match kicking off at 5:30pm, while A Grade Netball will commence at 3:50pm

Colac vs South Barwon (Round 3) will also be played under twilight conditions, with Senior Football starting at 5:30pm and A Grade Netball at 3:50pm.

ANZAC Day Night Clash: Newcomb vs Ocean Grove

Newcomb vs Ocean Grove clash has been rescheduled to an ANZAC Day night fixture, adding to the significance of the day in the Bellarine FNL. Both Senior Football and A Grade Netball will now take place under lights, with first bounce and first centre pass at 6:30pm.

This change marks a shift from the traditional scheduling and enhances the ANZAC Day proceedings in the region, complementing the existing Portarlington vs Drysdale fixture earlier in the day. 

South Barwon vs Leopold moved back to Saturday

The highly anticipated Grand Final rematch between South Barwon and Leopold has been rescheduled to Saturday, May 24th, reverting to traditional time slots after originally set for Sunday May 25th.

Leopold vs St Joseph’s Netball Venue Change

The Leopold vs St Joseph’s A Grade Netball match, originally scheduled to be played in Lorne, will now be played at Leopold on Saturday, April 12th due to court issues.

For the latest fixture updates and matchday information, stay tuned to the AFL Barwon website and social media channels.

AFL Barwon provides governance and strategy development for Football and Netball across the Barwon region. We are seeking volunteer(s) to join our team and gain valuable experience in the areas of netball operations. 

The work experience is a voluntary position and will required on Tuesday & Friday Afternoons each week for a period of 6 months, with the potential for extension.

If this sounds like a position for you, please email your resume and a bried cover letter to Sophie Allison (Head of Netball - AFL Barwon) via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Applications will be monitored and actioned as they are received.

The position descripton can be found here.