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Finals

BFNL Grand Final to remain at Newcomb in 2026 and 2027

AFL Barwon is pleased to confirm Grinter Reserve (Newcomb FNC) and Portarlington Recreation Reserve as the host venues for the 2026 Dow Bellarine Football Netball League Finals Series. 

As part of the appointment process, Grinter Reserve has been confirmed as the host venue for the Dow BFNL Preliminary Finals and Grand Finals through to the end of the 2027 season, providing certainty for clubs, supporters and stakeholders.

Newcomb has successfully hosted three of the last four BFNL Grand Finals, demonstrating a strong track record of delivering major events and comfortably accommodating anticipated crowd numbers.

Newcomb President Matt Farrow said, “The Newcomb Power Football Netball Club is proud to have been chosen to host the final two weeks of finals for the next two seasons. Being centrally located for all clubs and with the capacity to host significant crowds, we believe it provides a great option for the BFNL. This decision will also allow us to work with council and state stakeholders on potential small upgrades to further support the delivery of a fantastic event for our league.” 

Portarlington Recreation Reserve will host the opening weeks of the 2026 finals series, including the Qualifying and Elimination Finals on 29–30 August, followed by the Semi Finals on 5–6 September. The finals action will move to Grinter Reserve following the Semi Finals, with Newcomb Football Netball Club hosting the Preliminary Finals on Saturday 12 September before culminating in the Dow Bellarine Football Netball League Grand Final on Saturday 19 September.

AFL Barwon can also confirm that Lara Recreation Reserve will once again host the Epworth Senior and Junior Female Football Grand Finals on Sunday 30 August, with matches played across multiple grounds.

Following the success of last year’s Kempe Junior Male Grand Finals, St Joseph’s Football Netball Club will again host the event at Herne Hill Reserve across Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, utilising both ovals.

Venues for the opening weeks of the Epworth Female Football Finals Series and the Kempe Junior Male Finals Series will be announced in due course.

Further details regarding fixtures, match times and ticketing information will be released via the AFL Barwon website and social media channels closer to the commencement of the 2026 Finals Series.

Latest News

Epworth Senior Female Football Finals Fixtures

The Week One fixture for the 2026 Epworth Senior Female Football Division 2 Finals Series has been confirmed, with two matches to be played on Sunday.

The Qualifying Final will see Lara host Grovedale at Lara Recreation Reserve, with the match commencing at 12.00pm. The winner will progress through to take on Torquay, while the loser will receive a second opportunity in the following week against the winner of the Elimination Final.

The Elimination Final will be played at St Joseph's, where St Joseph's will face St Albans/Thomson, also commencing at 12.00pm. 

AFL Barwon congratulates all clubs on qualifying for the 2026 Epworth Senior Female Football Division 2 Finals Series and looks forward to an exciting opening weekend of finals football.

Image: eel_pie_sports_media

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Everything You Need To Know About All-Abilities Finals

By Ben Andonoudis

Saturday, August 15 will see the AFL Barwon All-Abilities Football season come to an end as both divisions play their final games.

Here is everything you need to know:

Who is playing?

The AFL Barwon All-Abilities competitions feature two divisions.

Contact division:

  • Bell Park
  • Geelong West
  • Newcomb
  • St Joseph's 

Non-contact division:

  • Geelong West
  • Newcomb
  • Newtown & Chilwell
  • St Joseph's

Where are they playing?

Games will be played at St Joseph's FNC, taking place at both Walker Oval and Plan Group Oval on Saturday.

What about the season to this point?

The season started in April, with players battling it out over 10 rounds.

    Who is playing who?

    Contact Division:

    The Grand final pits 2025 runners-up Bell Park, taking on 2025 consolation final winner Newcomb. The two sides have met once this season ,with Bell Park winning by 12-points.

    The Consolation Final will see 2025 premiers Geelong West take on 2025 consolation final runners-up St Joseph's. The Joeys defeated Geelong West by 37 points in their only previous meeting this season.

    Non-contact division:

    The 2026 season saw the introduction of a non-contact division for the first time, allowing more players to take part in organised sport while having their abilities catered to.

    The non-contact division is also non-competitive, allowing players to play for the love of the game.

    In the non-contact division, the four teams have all performed at a high level and will be looking to end the season on a high.

    Geelong West take on Newcomb in game one, while game two sees St Joseph's take on Newtown & Chilwell.

    How can you support the players?

    Get down to the games and cheer them on as they take to the field! They are free to attend.

    Full Fixture (all on Saturday):

    GAME 1 (NON-CONTACT) – Geelong West Giants vs Newcomb Power – WALKER OVAL

    • 1:15pm – Game commences.
    • 2:15pm – Game concludes (club medal presentations to follow).

    GAME 2 (NON-CONTACT) – St Joseph's vs Newtown & Chilwell – WALKER OVAL

    • 2:45pm – Game commences.
    • 3:45pm – Games concludes (club medal presentations to follow).

    GAME 3 (CONTACT) – Geelong West Giants vs St Joseph's - Consolation Final – WALKER OVAL

    • 4:50pm – Teams run onto the ground.
    • 5:00pm – Game commences.
    • 6:25pm – Game concludes.
    • 7:15pm – Presentation of medals in clubrooms.

    GAME 4 (CONTACT) – Bell Park Dragons vs Newcomb Power - Grand Final – PLAN GROUP OVAL

    • 5:35pm – Teams run onto the groud
    • 5:40pm – Teams line up for national anthem and announcements 
    • 5:45pm – Game commences.
    • 7:10pm – Game concludes.
    • 7:15pm – Presentation of medals in clubrooms.

    Grand Final Day is about more than the final scores. It is a celebration ofinclusion, participation, teamwork and community, recognising the incredible contribution players, coaches, volunteers, families and clubs make to All Abilities football across the region.

    AFL Barwon thanks Kardinia Park Stadium Trust for its continued support as the naming rights partner of the All Abilities competition, and St Joseph’s Football Netball Club for hosting what promises to be a fantastic Grand Final Day.

    We encourage families, friends, teammates and supporters to get along to St Joseph’s FNC and help create a memorable atmosphere for everyone involved.

    Good luck to all teams competing, and congratulations to every player who has contributed to another fantastic season of All Abilities football!

      Latest News

      Everything You Need to Know: 2026 Blood Toyota Geelong FNL Grand Final

      This Friday Public Holiday sees the culmination of the season for the Geelong Football Netball League for 2026.

      It will see unforgettable memories made and legends forged. Above all else, it will showcase the community spirit that sits at the heart of community sport.


      Venue & Date

      Kardinia Park

      370 Moorabool St, South Geelong VIC 3220.

      Friday, September 25, 2026

      Friday's events will all take place at Kardinia Park, the iconic home of the Geelong Cats in the AFL and AFLW. Matches will commence from 8:00am.

      Supporters are encouraged to arrive early, particularly if attending the morning netball matches or planning to stay for the Senior Football Grand Final.


      Tickets

      Beat the queues and save by purchasing your tickets online before arriving.

      Early Bird Pricing

      • Adult: $18
      • Concession: $10
      • Junior: $5
      • Family: $45

      Tickets can also be purchased at the gate, however online Early Bird tickets offer the best value.

      At Gate Pricing

      • Adult: $20
      • Concession: $10
      • Junior: $5
      • Family: $50

      Where to Buy

      Purchase your Grand Final tickets online via the official AFL Barwon ticketing platform.

      https://www.intix.com.au/org/afl-barwon

      Everyone attending the venue must have a valid ticket or applicable admission pass.


      Have Your Ticket Ready

      If you've purchased your ticket online, have your digital ticket ready to scan when you arrive.

      Purchasing online before you arrive will help you avoid unnecessary queues at the gate and allows you to take advantage of the Early Bird pricing.

      https://www.intix.com.au/org/afl-barwon


      Grand Final Schedule

      There will be premierships decided across football and netball throughout the day.

      GFNL Football

      Under 18 – 9:00am
      Newtown & Chilwell v Ocean Grove

      Reserves – 11:30am
      South Barwon v St Mary's

      Seniors – 2:15pm
      St Mary's v South Barwon

      GFNL Netball

      8:00am

      Court 5: South Barwon 13&U Division 1 vs St Mary's 13&U Division 1 — Brazilian Butterfly Cup

      Court 7: South Barwon 13&U Division 2 vs St Mary's 13&U Division 2 — The Athlete's Foot Cup

      9:15am

      Court 5: Bell Park 15&U Division 1 vs South Barwon 15&U Division 1 — Grill'd Cup

      Court 7: Newtown & Chilwell 15&U Division 2 vs South Barwon 15&U Division 2 — Brazilian Butterfly Cup

      10:30am

      Court 5: South Barwon 17&U Division 1 vs Geelong West Giants 17&U Division 1 — Kempe Cup

      Court 7: Newtown & Chilwell D Grade vs South Barwon D Grade — Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong Cup

      11:45am

      Court 5: Newtown & Chilwell C Grade vs St Mary's C Grade — Town and Country Pizza Cup

      Court 7: South Barwon 19&U vs Lara 19&U — gforce Cup

      1:05pm

      Court 5: Newtown & Chilwell B Grade vs South Barwon B Grade — Buckleys Cup

      Court 7: South Barwon 17&U Division 2 vs Bell Park 17&U Division 2 — P&R Foods Cup

      2:05pm

      Court 7: Bell Park E Grade vs South Barwon E Grade — Epworth Cup

      3:15pm

      Court 5: Newtown & Chilwell A Grade vs St Joseph's A Grade — Blood Toyota Cup

      With football and netball running throughout the day, supporters can enjoy a full day of GFNL Grand Final action from 8:00am through to the final siren.


      Broadcast and Live Streaming

      Can’t make it to Kardinia Park for the Blood Toyota Bellarine FNL Grand Final Day? You can still catch all the action live.

      The Senior Football Grand Final and A Grade Netball Grand Final will be live streamed via the AFL Barwon website, giving supporters the opportunity to watch the premiership deciders wherever they are.

      The live stream will capture all the action from the main games, with the Senior Football broadcast also featuring commentary from k rock on 95.5FM.

      The remaining netball matches will be recorded and available to watch after the games.

      The Reserves and Under 18 Football Grand Finals will also be recorded, allowing supporters to catch up on the action after the final siren.

      Watch the live streams via the AFL Barwon website and tune in to k rock 95.5FM for the Senior Football broadcast.


      Plan Ahead: It's Going to Be a Hot One

      You never know what you'll get in Geelong in spring; while the current forecast is for a warm day, there is a chance of a thunderstorm later in the day! 

      If you're planning to spend several hours at Kardinia Park, consider bringing:

      • A hat and appropriate sun protection
      • Plenty of water to stay hydrated
      • Sunscreen, with regular reapplication recommended

      Look after yourself, your family and your mates throughout the day, particularly during the warmer parts of the afternoon.

      First Aid will be available on site to provide support to attendees should they require assistance during the event.


      How do I get to Kardinia Park?

      Public transport is an option for supporters travelling to Kardinia Park.

      For the most accurate journey information, including departure times, service changes and disruptions, supporters should use the Transport Victoria Journey Planner before leaving home.

      Search for Kardinia Park, 370 Moorabool St, South Geelong VIC 3220 as your destination.

      Allow additional time for your journey and check your return trip before heading to the ground, particularly if you're planning to stay until the conclusion of the Senior Football Grand Final.


      Is there Rideshare Options Available?

      Yes, rideshare is another option for supporters looking to avoid the pressure of finding a car park.

      If using rideshare, allow extra time around the busiest periods of the day and follow directions from event staff regarding drop-off and pick-up locations.

      Traffic around Kardinia Park is expected to increase before and after the Senior Football Grand Final, so consider arranging your pick-up away from the immediate entrance if possible.


      Can spectators enter the ground after matches?

      AFL Barwon and our hosts at Kardinia Park Stadium Trust know how much our community loves to get out on to the oval for a kick and to get up close to the presentation ceremony.

      We have been working hard to ensure that this will happen, but please be aware that if there is a sudden change in weather conditions (such as heavy rain or lightning), access to the ground may not be permitted.


      Are prams permitted?

      Netball Courts: Prams are permitted.

      Stadium: Small strollers that can be safely stored under your seat are welcome inside the stadium. For safety and crowd flow reasons, large prams are not permitted inside the stadium. They can block exits, pose trip hazards, and impact emergency access.

      Please use the designated pram storage area near Gate 13 before entering the stadium.

      Thank you for your support and understanding.


      Will there be pass-outs?

      Yes, there will be pass-out stamps available at all gates.


      Where will presentations take place?

      All Football presentations will be conducted on the ground immediately following each game.

      All Netball presentations will be conducted in the designated area immediately following each game.


      Conditions of Entry

      GMHBA Stadium Conditions of Entry -Conditions of Entry - Kardinia Park Stadium Trust

      AFL Barwon Conditions of Entry

      • Everyone must pay the admission fee to enter the venue. 
      • Local council by–laws forbid taking alcohol into public reserves.
      • It is a condition of Entry that vehicles be inspected for illegal entry of alcohol.  
      • Failure to comply with this request will result in the vehicle not being permitted to enter the reserve.
      • Alcohol is not to be consumed before 12pm in line with liquor licensing requirements. 
      • No glass is permitted at the venue.
      • Any alcohol detected entering any venue will be confiscated and will not be returned to the patron.
      • Utilities or trucks with couches or lounge chairs on the back will not be permitted entry.
      • No Pets are allowed to enter the venue. Assistance or guide dogs are permitted.
      • Re-entry via pass-out stamp only.

      Wristband requirements:

      Players on the door list do not require wristbands.

      All other game-day personnel, including non-playing players, must wear a wristband and be on the door list.

      Wristbands for post-match guests will be supplied to clubs by AFL Barwon.

      Guest access:

      Guests may enter the change rooms via the player races if Field of Play access is permitted.

      If Field of Play access is not permitted, guests must exit the venue and re-enter via Gate 15.

      All guests must wear a valid wristband, which will be checked by security at the entrance.

      Please note, there will be no seating bowl access once public gates are closed after the Senior match. Guests for the Senior teams must take all their belongings with them to the change rooms.


      Plan Your Day

      Grand Final Day starts early, with the first netball matches hitting the court at 8:00am.

      If you're planning to watch multiple games, we recommend arriving early and allowing plenty of time for:

      • Finding a car park
      • Walking to the ground
      • Entering through the gates
      • Getting settled before your game
      • Moving between the football oval and netball courts

      The Senior Football Grand Final is scheduled for 2:15pm, so supporters arriving specifically for the senior game should allow extra time for increased traffic and parking demand.

      Latest News

      Everything You Need to Know: 2026 Dow Bellarine FNL Grand Final

      The wait is almost over, with the 2026 Dow Bellarine Football Netball League Grand Finals set to take over Grinter Reserve this Saturday, September 19.

      With premierships on the line across football and netball, supporters from across the Bellarine will make their way to Moolap for one of the biggest days on the BFNL calendar.

      Whether you're heading along for the first netball game of the morning, the Senior Football Grand Final or everything in between, here's everything you need to know before you arrive.


      Venue & Date

      Grinter Reserve
      141 Coppards Road, Moolap VIC 3224

      Saturday, September 19, 2026

      The Grand Final venue will host a full day of BFNL football and netball, with the first netball matches commencing from 8:00am.

      Supporters are encouraged to arrive early, particularly if attending the morning netball matches or planning to stay for the Senior Football Grand Final.


      Tickets

      Beat the queues and save by purchasing your tickets online before arriving.

      Early Bird Pricing

      • Adult: $15
      • Concession: $10
      • Junior: $5
      • Family: $40

      Tickets can also be purchased at the gate, however online Early Bird tickets offer the best value.

      At Gate Pricing

      • Adult: $18
      • Concession: $10
      • Junior: $5
      • Family: $45

      Where to Buy

      Purchase your Grand Final tickets online via the official AFL Barwon ticketing platform.

      https://www.intix.com.au/org/afl-barwon

      Everyone attending the venue must have a valid ticket or applicable admission pass.


      Grand Final Schedule

      There will be premierships decided across football and netball throughout the day.

      BFNL Football

      Under 18 – 9:15am
      Leopold v Torquay

      Reserves – 11:30am
      Queenscliff v Modewarre

      Seniors – 2:15pm
      Torquay v Queenscliff

      The Senior Football Grand Final will bring the day's football program to a close, with Torquay and Queenscliff meeting for the BFNL Senior premiership.

      BFNL Netball

      Netball Grand Finals will be played throughout the day across the two courts.

      8:00am

      • 15&U Division 2 – Torquay v Surf Coast
      • 13&U Division 2 – Ocean Grove v Geelong Amateur

      9:15am

      • 17&U Division 1 – Torquay v Portarlington
      • 13&U Division 1 – Ocean Grove v Drysdale

      10:30am

      • D Grade – Torquay v Barwon Heads
      • 19&U – Drysdale v Portarlington

      11:45am

      • C Grade – Ocean Grove v Portarlington
      • 15&U Division 1 – Torquay v Geelong Amateur

      1:05pm

      • B Grade – Torquay v Queenscliff
      • 17&U Division 2 – Geelong Amateur v Drysdale

      2:05pm

      • E Grade – Torquay v Geelong Amateur

      3:15pm

      • A Grade – Geelong Amateur v Ocean Grove

      With football and netball running throughout the day, supporters can enjoy a full day of BFNL Grand Final action from 8:00am through to the final siren.


      Broadcast and Live Streaming

      Can’t make it to Grinter Reserve? You can still follow the action from wherever you are.

      The Dow Senior Football Grand Final and Dow A Grade Netball Grand Final will be live streamed via the AFL Barwon website, giving supporters the opportunity to watch the two senior premiership deciders live.

      The Senior Football Grand Final will also be called live on K rock 95.5FM, with commentary throughout the match.

      The remaining senior netball matches, along with the 19&Under Netball Grand Final, will be recorded and available to watch after the games.

      The Reserves and Under 18 Football Grand Finals will also be recorded, allowing supporters to catch up on the action after the final siren.

      Watch the live streams via the AFL Barwon website and tune in to k rock 95.5FM for the Senior Football broadcast.


      Plan Ahead: It's Going to Be a Hot One

      Saturday is expected to be a hot day, and with limited seating available around the football oval, supporters are encouraged to come prepared.

      If you're planning to spend several hours at Grinter Reserve, consider bringing:

      • A chair or picnic rug for your comfort
      • A hat and appropriate sun protection
      • Plenty of water to stay hydrated
      • Sunscreen, with regular reapplication recommended

      Look after yourself, your family and your mates throughout the day, particularly during the warmer parts of the afternoon.

      ColMed First Aid will be available on site to provide support to attendees should they require assistance during the event.


      Getting to Grinter Reserve

      Parking

      Parking around Grinter Reserve is expected to be busy, particularly as the day progresses and crowds build ahead of the Senior Football Grand Final.

      Supporters are encouraged to arrive early, carpool where possible and allow additional time to find a park and walk to the venue.

      Please follow all parking signage and directions from event staff and do not park illegally or obstruct local roads, driveways or access points.

      Public Transport

      Public transport is an option for supporters travelling to Grinter Reserve.

      For the most accurate journey information, including departure times, service changes and disruptions, supporters should use the Transport Victoria Journey Planner before leaving home.

      Search for Grinter Reserve, 141 Coppards Road, Moolap as your destination.

      Allow additional time for your journey and check your return trip before heading to the ground, particularly if you're planning to stay until the conclusion of the Senior Football Grand Final.

      Road Closures & the Geelong Running Festival

      If you're travelling to Grinter Reserve on Saturday, there is no need to alter your journey because of the major Geelong Running Festival road closures.

      The Geelong Running Festival is taking place across the weekend, with some smaller events held on Saturday, September 19 around the Geelong waterfront.

      However, the major road closures and traffic changes associated with the marathon, half marathon and community run are scheduled for Sunday, September 20.

      This means the extensive Sunday road closure arrangements will not impact supporters travelling to Grinter Reserve for the BFNL Grand Finals on Saturday.

      Supporters travelling to Grinter Reserve on Saturday should therefore be able to travel as normal, although general traffic around Geelong may still be busier than usual.

      For the latest road conditions, incidents and any unexpected changes, check VicTraffic before leaving home.

      DiDi Rideshare & Drop-Off

      Rideshare is another option for supporters looking to avoid the pressure of finding a car park.

      If using rideshare, allow extra time around the busiest periods of the day and follow directions from event staff regarding drop-off and pick-up locations.

      Traffic around the reserve is expected to increase before and after the Senior Football Grand Final, so consider arranging your pick-up away from the immediate entrance if possible.


      Plan Your Day

      Grand Final Day starts early, with the first netball matches hitting the court at 8:00am.

      If you're planning to watch multiple games, we recommend arriving early and allowing plenty of time for:

      • Finding a car park
      • Walking to the ground
      • Entering through the gates
      • Getting settled before your game
      • Moving between the football oval and netball courts

      The Senior Football Grand Final is scheduled for 2:15pm, so supporters arriving specifically for the senior game should allow extra time for increased traffic and parking demand.


      Conditions of Entry

      AFL Barwon finals venues operate under a number of conditions of entry.

      Please remember:

      • Everyone attending must have a valid admission ticket or applicable pass.
      • No alcohol can be brought into the venue.
      • Vehicles may be inspected for illegal entry of alcohol.
      • Any alcohol detected entering the venue will be confiscated and will not be returned.
      • Alcohol cannot be consumed at the venue before 12:00pm, in accordance with liquor licensing requirements.
      • No glass is permitted.
      • Utilities or trucks with couches or lounge chairs on the back will not be permitted entry.
      • No pets are permitted, with the exception of assistance or guide dogs.
      • Re-entry is available via a pass-out stamp.

      Have Your Ticket Ready

      If you've purchased your ticket online, have your digital ticket ready to scan when you arrive.

      Purchasing online before you arrive will help you avoid unnecessary queues at the gate and allows you to take advantage of the Early Bird pricing.

      https://www.intix.com.au/org/afl-barwon


      The Biggest Day of the BFNL Season

      From the first netball whistle at 8:00am through to the Senior Football Grand Final in the afternoon, Grinter Reserve will be the centre of Bellarine FNL action this Saturday.

      With premierships across football and netball to be decided, it's set to be a great day for players, families, clubs and supporters.

      Plan your trip, come prepared for the conditions, purchase your ticket online and we'll see you at Grinter Reserve for the 2026 Dow Bellarine FNL Grand Finals!

      Latest News

      Everything You Need To Know: Epworth Senior Female Division 2 Finals Series

      By Ben Andonoudis

      The AFL Barwon Epworth Senior Female Division 2 finals series gets underway with two exciting games to take place on Sunday.

      Qualifying final: Lara vs Grovedale @ Lara Recreation Reserve (12pm, Sunday 9th August)

      The winner of this game will take on top of the ladder Torquay for a spot in the grand final.

      Both teams have been impressive this season with Lara finishing the regular season in second while Grovedale were third on the ladder.

      Both have great records this season with Lara having only tasted defeat once up to this point and Grovedale enjoying a 10-win home-and-away season.

      The two previous matchups between these sides have seen Lara come away 61-point winners in round seven and 78-point winners in round 13.

      Grovedale have shown improvement this season, having finished in seventh spot last season in Division 2. 

      Elimination final: St Joseph's vs St Albans/Thomson @ Herne Hill Reserve (12pm Sunday 9th August)

      The winner of this game will face off in a sudden-death semi-final against the losing team from the other matchup this weekend.

      Following the end of the regular season, St Joseph's found themselves in fourth spot while St Albans/Thomson were in fifth.

      Both teams have enjoyed a positive win-loss record, St Joseph's going 9-5 in the home-and-away, and St Albans/Thomson 8-6.

      The sides have faced off against each other twice already in 2026, with a thriller occurring in round seven as St Albans/Thomson came away two-point winners.

      The other matchup between the two sides saw St Josephs win by forfeit.

      Latest News

      GFNL Grand Final to remain at Kardinia Park under new three-year agreement

      AFL Barwon, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and the Geelong Cats have joined forces to secure GMHBA Stadium and the Kardinia Park Precinct as the home of the GFNL Grand Final for at least the next three years.

      The announcement formalises a shared commitment to delivering a high-quality, community-centred Grand Final experience at Victoria’s premier regional sporting venue. 

      The 2024 and 2025 Blood Toyota GFNL Grand Finals were held at Kardinia Park, attracting more than 20,000 spectators through the gates. A further 20,000 viewers tuned in via live broadcast coverage.

      The event continues to play a significant role across the wider Barwon community, with supporters travelling from across Victoria and interstate to attend last year’s Grand Final.

      AFL Barwon CEO Kate Patterson said “We’re in such a fortunate and unique position, being the only region in Victoria with an AFL club. Through this partnership with the Geelong Cats and KPST, we’re able to offer our clubs, players and supporters the chance to celebrate their biggest moment on a world-class stage.

      “It’s an opportunity very few community football and netball leagues ever get, and we’re incredibly proud to be able to bring that experience to the GFNL.”

      Kardinia Park Stadium Trust CEO Gerard Griffin said “At Kardinia Park Stadium Trust, community is one of our core pillars, so we are thrilled to support the Geelong Football and Netball League Grand Finals at the Kardinia Park precinct over the next three years. This event is a highlight in our calendar and is the only community league football match to be held at an AFL stadium in Victoria. 

      “We’re proud to partner with AFL Barwon and Geelong Football Club to help deliver such a memorable experience for the players and community." 

      Geelong Cats Chief Operating Officer Marcus King said "We’re excited to see the GFNL Grand Finals returning to GMHBA Stadium and the broader Kardinia Park precinct for the next three years. Community football and netball is such a significant part of our region, and it is fitting that local football and netball grand finals will continue to be showcased on the biggest stage in Geelong. 

      “It will also be a great opportunity for the football community to enjoy a huge week of football, with the GFNL Grand Finals to follow the AFLW match against Hawthorn at GMHBA Stadium on the Thursday night of AFL Grand Final week.” 

      The 2026 GFNL Grand Final will be played on Victoria’s Grand Final Public Holiday on Friday 25 September including 3 games of football and 12 games of netball. Further announcements on 2026 Finals Series venues will be made in the coming weeks.

      Further information on the event will be available via the AFL Barwon website and AFL Barwon social media platforms.

      Latest News

      What's on this weekend | August 28-30

      The 2026 finals series ramps up this weekend, with premierships on the line, the opening weekend of the Dow Bellarine FNL finals, Colac & District FNL finals, uper Sunday of Epworth Female Football Grand Finals as well as junior football and netball finals all taking place across the region.

      From the first bounce of the Dow Bellarine FNL finals through to the final siren of the Female Football Grand Finals, there is plenty happening across AFL Barwon this weekend.

      For full fixtures, match times, venues and finals information, visit the AFL Barwon Finals Hub and check PlayHQ before heading to the ground.

      Finals time is about creating lasting memories that can be talked about for years to come.

      Across this exciting finals period, let’s make sure the memories we create are positive ones for everyone involved — memories worth celebrating, not ones that should be forgotten.

      Respect the game, respect the opposition and respect our officials throughout the finals series.


      Grill'd Junior Netball Finals

      Friday night will see the Junior Netball Finals get underway at Kardinia Park.

      The opening semi-finals will see the 1st v 2nd and 3rd v 4th teams meet, with the winners progressing towards the Grand Final and the losing teams given another opportunity through the Preliminary Final.

      Full Fixtures: https://www.playhq.com/netball-australia/org/afl-barwon-fnl/winter-2026/67a3f07f?day=FRIDAY


      Dow Bellarine FNL Finals

      The Dow Bellarine Football Netball League finals series gets underway this weekend at Portarlington Recreation Reserve, with the Qualifying and Elimination Finals to be played across Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 August.

      It is the first step towards Grand Final Day on Saturday 19 September, with teams across Senior Football, Reserves, Under 18s and A-E Grade and junior netball beginning their push for a premiership.

      Fans heading to Portarlington are encouraged to pre-purchase their tickets online, with Early Bird prices available at $15 for adults, $10 concession, $5 juniors and $40 for a family of four.

      Tickets can be purchased: https://www.intix.com.au/org/afl-barwon


      Epworth Female Football Grand Finals

      Sunday will see seven premierships decided across two grounds at Lara Recreation Reserve, with the 2026 Epworth Female Football Grand Finals bringing together teams from Under 14 through to Senior Division 1.

      Bisinella Oval

      10:00am
      Under 17 Division 1 Epworth Cup
      St Mary’s Flynn v Torquay Scott

      12:15pm
      Senior Division 2 Epworth Cup
      Lara v Torquay

      2:30pm
      Senior Division 1 Epworth Cup
      Geelong Ammos Senior Female 1 v Grovedale

      Lara Recreation Reserve No. 2

      9:00am
      Under 17 Division 2 Kings Cup
      Ocean Grove Martin v St Mary’s Hoare

      11:15am
      Under 14 Division 3 Kings Cup
      Peninsula Sharks Bulls v Newtown & Chilwell Lappin

      1:00pm
      Under 14 Division 2 Kings Cup
      South Barwon Laherty v Bannockburn Grinter

      2:45pm
      Under 14 Division 1 Epworth Cup
      Torquay Bennett v Barwon Heads U14 Girls Leen

      Seven premierships will be decided across the day, providing a fitting conclusion to another strong season of female football across the AFL Barwon region.


      Kempe Junior Football Finals

      Junior football finals continue across the weekend, with clubs, players and families coming together for another important stage of the 2026 Kempe Junior Football Finals Series.

      Games will be played this weekend at Leopold Memorial Park Oval's 1 & 2, and North Shores, Windsor Park.

      Full Fixtures: https://www.playhq.com/afl/org/afl-barwon-fnl/2026/cfa23107? 


      C&DFNL Finals

      There is also plenty of action across the Colac & District Football Netball League, with a full weekend of netball fixtures scheduled across Saturday and Sunday at Central Reserve.

      Full fixtures:

      Football: https://www.playhq.com/afl/org/colac-and-district-football-and-netball-league/2026/49a5daca

      Netball: https://www.playhq.com/netball-australia/org/colac-and-district-football-and-netball-league/winter-2026/d614ac41

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