On Saturday, May 18th, the Elderslie Reserve will once again be the venue for an event that blends community spirit, sportsmanship, and a heartfelt cause. The third annual Zoe Kennedy Tribute Match, featuring Newtown & Chilwell vs. Bell Park, will not only showcase thrilling netball and football matches but also serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of asthma management and destigmatisation within the sporting community.

A Tribute to Zoe Kennedy

The Zoe Kennedy Tribute Match commemorates Zoe Kennedy, a passionate netball and football player whose life was tragically cut short by an asthma attack in 2020. By bringing together Zoe's netball team and her father Lach Kennedy's football team, the event honours her spirit while raising crucial funds to support young people with asthma.

"Zoe loved her sport and would be proud to see the sporting community come together to ensure that other kids with asthma don't miss out," says her father, Lach Kennedy. He emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing asthma, highlighting the Foundation's efforts to normalize the use of preventers and relievers, and to encourage open discussions about asthma.

Community Support and Awareness

Local sporting clubs and stadiums will be adorned with posters designed by Geelong artist Georgia Naughton, featuring brightly coloured artworks with asthma-themed phrases to raise awareness. Attendees can purchase purple 'Inhale Exhale' beanies and scarves, symbolising unity and contributing to the Zoe Kennedy Foundation.

Achievements of the Zoe Kennedy Foundation

Founded in 2020 by the Kennedy family and Figurehead Group, the Zoe Kennedy Foundation specifically focuses on improving the lives of young people with asthma. In the three years since Zoe's passing, the Foundation has raised nearly $300,000. These funds have supported a Virtual Care PhD with Asthma Australia and product trials for Puff-ah, an integrated, collapsible, smart inhaler system designed to improve adherence to asthma medications. Additionally, the Foundation has collaborated with Dr. Ben McKenzie of the Royal Melbourne Hospital to provide AMAX4 training devices, enhancing the standard of care for asthma and anaphylaxis.

Event Schedule

The day kicks off with netball matches starting at 8 am, followed by football matches for the 16s, 18s, and Reserves at 10 am. The main event begins at 1 pm, featuring activities such as face painting, balloon twisting, and a silent auction. A ceremony and netball presentations will take place at 1:30 pm, leading up to the Seniors' football match at 2:30 pm. The event concludes with a trophy presentation, live entertainment, and a raffle draw from 6 pm to late.

"We're humbled by the support of the Geelong community, particularly the Newtown and Bell Park Football Netball Clubs. There is genuine care for players, and we're proud of what this is generating in terms of asthma awareness in sport," says Lach Kennedy.

Join Us

Join us on Saturday, May 18th, at Elderslie Reserve, Newtown, to honour Zoe Kennedy's memory and contribute to raising awareness and funds for young people with asthma. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this chronic condition.

For more information, visit http://www.zoekennedy.com.au or follow @zoekennedyfoundation on Instagram.

Event Schedule at a Glance

- Netball from 8:00 am

- 10:00 am – 16s, 18s, Reserves Football

- 1:00 pm – Activities (Face Painting, Balloon Twisting, Silent Auction)

- 1:30 pm – Netball Presentations and Ceremony

- 2:30 pm – Seniors Football (Newtown vs. Bell Park)

- 6:00 pm – Entertainment (Live Band + DJ) and Raffle Draw

Three-time Mathieson Medallist, Club Captain, Geelong Football Netball League Interleague Representative, Club Best and Fairest winner, the list of accolades could go on when you discuss the career of Newtown & Chilwell star Matt McMahon.

This weekend Matt clocks up the outstanding achievement of playing his 250 Senior match after starting his career as a 17 years ago.

AFL Barwon spoke to Matt earlier this week about this weekend’s milestone with Newtown & Chilwell hosting Lara.

AFL Barwon: 250 games is an incredible effort. Congratulations! How have you been able to get to this milestone and stayed playing at such a high level? How is the body feeling?

Matt McMahon: Looking back now it feels like a long time ago when I was making my debut as a 17-year-old, but I guess the desire to compete and my love for the club, coaches, teammates, past and present, has been the main factor in continually showing up and has now got me to this milestone.

No doubt the body has seen better days, and it takes longer to recovery from games, even training at times, but that doesn’t outweigh the enjoyment I get from being around the club and running out with the boys each week.

AFL Barwon: You have remained a one club player throughout your senior career, what has kept you at Newtown & Chilwell? What is so special about the club?

Matt McMahon:It’s something I am proud of being is a one club player. It has been an easy decision for me along the way. I just feel fortunate for the support the club has shown me over the years, the relationships I’ve formed, best mates I’ve made, all those things make it such a special place for me and a reason why I feel I owe the club so much.

AFL Barwon: You are a three-time Mathieson Medallist which an incredible achievement in its own. Is there one of these seasons you credit as your best?

Matt McMahon:It’s hard to compare your individual years but my favourite years are those when you are competing at a high level against the best teams in the competition. As a player and teammate, I felt I had a big contribution to that standard which makes those years more memorable.

AFL Barwon: it must be tougher to keep playing and finding the time to train when you have younger kids. You must have a very supportive family.

Matt McMahon:Yes, obviously the combination of kids and footy has its challenges but if anything, it puts football into perspective. It made me look at it in a whole new way.

Seeing the enjoyment our kids get out of it, for me, is probably one of the best parts of playing. I know on reflection in years to come it will be something we all look back on with great memories. 

I’m proud watching my whole family embrace being a part of the club.

Mads (Wife Madaleine McMahon) and the kids and also my parents, have all been incredible and I feel extremely lucky to have their support over the years.

AFL Barwon: You’re giving back to the club by coaching junior teams, how are you as a coach and is coaching where you think you’ll end up post career? 

Matt McMahon:I get so much joy watching our kids play footy but also just growing up within the club. The coaching side of it is great fun and something that’s hard to stay away from as you feel like you have a fair bit to give, but to be honest I haven’t thought too much more about coaching post career. When the playing days are done, I look forward to helping out and giving back to the club wherever I can.

The AFL Barwon community congratulates Matt on wonderful achievement and all the best for the weekend’s celebration.

Anglesea v Newcomb

• At the request of Anglesea FNC the MRP viewed vision of a possible strike in an incident that occurred after the half time siren of the Anglesea v Newcomb Senior match on Saturday 21^st May 2022.

The MRP deemed that whilst it was unnecessary and had the potential to escalate, the action of #33 Newcomb on #50 Anglesea was not deemed reportable.

Torquay v Queenscliff

• At the request of Torquay FNC the MRP viewed vision of potential rough conduct by #8 Queenscliff and a potential striking incident by #1 Queenscliff on #49 Torquay that were alleged to have occurred during a melee at the end of the 2^nd Whilst the official vision did not show the incidents or the melee, unofficial vision provided by Torquay was viewed by the MRP. No striking offences were noted and the action of #8 Queenscliff was not deemed reportable by the MRP.
• Both clubs have been issued fines of $500 of which $250 will be suspended for the remainder of the 2022 season for their respective involvement in the melee.

Geelong West Giants v Bell Post Hill

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a melee that occurred during the 2^nd quarter of the Geelong West Giants v Bell Post Hill senior match. No reportable offences were noted and the Melee was not deemed sufficient for any penalties to be applied in this instance.

St Albans v North Shore

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a melee that occurred during the 1^st quarter of the St Albans v North Shore senior match. No reportable offences were noted and the Melee was not deemed sufficient for any penalties to be applied in this instance.

Newtown & Chilwell v South Barwon

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of an incident in the second quarter of the Newtown & Chilwell v South Barwon Senior match on Saturday 21^st May 2022 involving Lachlan Bond #15 Newtown & Chilwell and Todd Smith #28 South Barwon.

It was determined that Lachlan Bond be reported for striking Todd White and have offered a 2 match Set Penalty in this instance.

Inverleigh v Thomson

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of an incident that occurred during the 3^rd quarter of the Senior match Inverleigh v Thomson involving #24 Inverleigh and #43 Thomson. The incident was not deemed reportable. No charge laid.

• At the request of Inverleigh FNC, the MRP viewed vision of an incident that occurred during the 3^rd quarter of the Senior match Inverleigh v Thomson involving #7 Thomson Daniel Freeman and  #8 Inverleigh Lachlan Buyel. The MRP have reported Daniel Freeman for Rough Conduct through a dangerous tackle. A 2 match set penalty has been offered.

Bannockburn v North Geelong

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of an incident in the fourth quarter of the Bannockburn v North Geelong Senior match on Saturday 21^st May 2022 involving Brett Harding #19 Bannockburn and Dylan Fisher #18 North Geelong.

It was determined that Brett Harding be reported for carelessly striking Dylan Fisher and have offered a 1 match Set Penalty in this instance.

Geelong Amateur v Ocean Grove

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of 3 separate melees that occurred during and at the end of the 3^rd The vision as viewed by the MRP indicated a large number of players from both sides involved, which was unnecessarily prolonged through further actions from both sides.

Both clubs have been issued fines of $1250 of which $750 will be suspended for the remainder of the 2022 season for their respective involvement in the melee.

Where reports have been laid, both clubs involved have until 10.00am Tuesday 24^th May  to request the matter be heard at Tribunal, or the Set Penalty will apply as offered.

Reports

St Mary’s v St Joseph’s

• The MRP viewed vision of a report that was laid by the officiating umpire against #16 St Joseph’s Joel O’Dwyer for Carelessly Striking #22 St Mary’s Darcy Chirgwin. They deemed that the vision reflected the action was not reportable by nature and in consultation with the umpire, the charge has been withdrawn.

Torquay v Queenscliff

• The MRP viewed vision of a report that was laid by the officiating umpires against #15 Queenscliff Lachlan Cohen for Rough Conduct on #25 Torquay Chase Loftus. They deemed that the vision reflected the action was not reportable by nature and in consultation with the umpires, the charge has been withdrawn.

Geelong West Giants v Bell Post Hill

• The MRP viewed vision of a report that was laid by the officiating umpire against #16 Bell Post Hill Dylan Witney for Carelessly Striking #1 Geelong West Giants Blake Dye. They deemed that the vision reflected the action was not reportable by nature and in consultation with the umpire, the charge has been withdrawn.

Queenscliff v Anglesea

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a potentially dangerous tackle by Dylan Blizzard #50 Anglesea on Brod Dawson #24 Queenscliff in the 2^nd quarter of the Queenscliff v Anglesea Senior match on Saturday 28^th May 2022.

The MRP deemed that the tackle applied wasn’t reportable and no charge was laid.

Werribee Centrals v Bannockburn

• At the request of Werribee Centrals FNC, the MRP viewed vision of potential rough conduct by #23 Bannockburn on #32 Werribee Centrals. The MRP deemed the bump was fair and a legitimate shepherd in the circumstances. No charge was laid.

Grovedale v Newtown & Chilwell

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a potentially dangerous tackle by Michael Condy #10 Newtown & Chilwell on Jack Tute #21 Grovedale in the 3^rd quarter of the Grovedale v Newtown & Chilwell Senior match on Saturday 28^th May 2022.

The MRP deemed that the tackle applied wasn’t reportable, but the free kick paid was appropriate and no charge was laid.

South Barwon v St Albans

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of 3 separate melees that occurred during the 3^rd quarter of the South Barwon v St Albans senior match. No reportable offences were noted and the Melees were not deemed sufficient for any penalties to be applied in this instance.

East Geelong v Geelong West Giants

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a potentially dangerous tackle by #43 Joseph Bangura GWG on Jacob Ozolins #16 East Geelong during the 4^th quarter of the East Geelong v Geelong West Giants senior match on Saturday 28^th May 2022. The MRP deemed the tackle was dangerous and reported Joseph Bangura for rough conduct on Jacob Ozolins. A 2 match set penalty has been offered.

Anakie v Bell Post Hill

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a melee in the fourth quarter of the Anakie v Bell Post Hill Senior match on Saturday 28^th May 2022.

It was determined that prior to the melee an incident occurred whereby William Ford #17 Bell Post Hill struck Billy Goodwin #13 Anakie high with his elbow/forearm in a matter which constituted striking.

William Ford has been reported for Intentionally striking Billy Goodwin and has been offered a 2 match Set Penalty in this instance.

• No action was taken regarding the 3 separate melees that were viewed, but both clubs are strongly advised to refrain from future involvement in these to avoid potential sanctions being applied.

Reports

Anakie v Bell Post Hill

• The MRP viewed the incident where Luke Daffy #14 Bell Post Hill was reported for intentionally striking Josh Warrington #34 Bell Post Hill and found there was insufficient evidence from the vision for them to amend the charge as reported on the day.

South Barwon v St Albans

• The MRP viewed the incident where Jackson Carrick #73 South Barwon was reported for rough conduct on Ashton Percy #24 St Albans and found there was insufficient evidence from the vision for them to amend the charge as reported on the day.

Where reports have been laid, both clubs involved have until 10.00am Tuesday 31^st May to request the matter be heard at Tribunal, or the Set Penalty will apply as offered.

Newtown Chilwell Football Netball Club (NCNFC) is offering the right candidate a unique opportunity to coach our Senior’s team and lead the club for the 2025 season and beyond.

Our club

The NCFNC was formed in 1934, when the Chilwell Football Club (1874) and Newtown Football Club (1875) merged in 1934. We have continuously and successfully represented the Newtown and Chilwell communities for over 85 years and are affiliated with the Geelong Football Netball League. 

Our club has a strong junior development program winning the last two years under 18 Colts premierships and five-time overall club champions of the GFNL.

We stand by our club values of being Selfless – United – Respect – Relentless and we ensure this follows through all the programs run through the club.

NCFNC are proud of our successes both on and off the field within the sporting and local community.

We are looking for:

A passionate and experienced AFL coach who is looking for an opportunity to join an innovative, supportive and enthusiastic club.

Ideally, our Senior’s coach is a strategic thinker with a proven track record in coaching, a deep love for the game with a vision and passion to take our club to the next level.

Key attributes that we are seeking:

• Proven Experience: You have a strong background in coaching at a senior level, with a history of success on and off the field.
• Leadership Skills: You can inspire, mentor, and develop players of all abilities, fostering a positive and competitive team culture.
• Management and mentoring: you can successfully manage and mentor the assistant coaching group to align with the overall playing style.
• Providekey input into list strategy, identify and assist with the recruitment of new players to the club
• Game Strategy: You possess a deep understanding of AFL tactics and can devise game plans that leverage the strengths of our team.
• Communication: You’re an excellent communicator, able to motivate players and work collaboratively with club management, junior coaches and support staff.
• Community Engagement: You value the role of a community club and are committed to building strong relationships with our supporters, members, and local community.
• Recruitment: Proven ability to assist our club in identifying and recruiting new players and support staff.

What We Offer:

• Supportive Environment: Work within a well-established club with strong administrative and operational support.
• Talented Squad: Coach a dedicated and skilled group of players eager to achieve their full potential.
• Facilities: Access to excellent training and playing facilities.
• Community: Be a part of a vibrant and supportive local sporting community.
• Events: Our club events are exceptional and reach record numbers of attendees
• Remuneration to be negotiated based on coaching credential and experience.

How to Apply: Send your resume and a cover letter outlining your coaching philosophy and vision for the Newtown Chilwell Football Netball Club to Kevin Dalton This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  Ph 0414 834 545 by 13/09/2024.

Don’t miss this chance to lead a proud club with a rich history and a bright future. Apply now and be part of something special!

Reporting to the Region General Manager this role has three key focus areas:

1. To oversee the conduct of all football and netball competitions in the AFL Barwon region
2. To oversee the Operational staff of football, netball and umpiring at AFL Barwon
3. To oversee the management of the Community Club Sustainability Program for football and netball in the AFL Barwon region.

Please see full PD below and please submit applications to Bruce Harwood – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Women’s Senior Division 1

Qualifying Finals: Geelong Amateur vs St Mary's

It was a dominant display by Geelong Amateur last weekend. They were on top from the start and gave St Mary’s absolutely no freedom to play their game. Danielle Gaylard was outstanding for Geelong Amateur as was Analea McKee. McKee was the tip of the spear up forward for Ammos finishing with four goals. Ella Firth was named the best for St Mary’s.

Geelong Amateur now move to the Grand Final while St Mary’s has a date with Grovedale in the Preliminary Finals. The Saints have won their past two encounters with the Tigers. Last time it was St Mary’s by 11 points. The match will be held at McDonald Reserve this Sunday.

Best

Geelong Amateur: D. Gaylard, S. Riley, L. De Groot, J. Dorward, Cheryl De Groot, F. Hocking

St Mary’s: E. Firth, B. Mallia, T. Ryan, D. Stewart, K. Houghton, L. Gibbs

Goals

Geelong Amateur: 4 A. McKee, R. Arnold, C. De Groot, D. Gaylard

St Mary’s: Emma Allen

Final Score

Geelong Amateur: 7.8 (50)

St Mary’s: 1.1 (7)

Elimination Finals: Newtown & Chilwell vs Grovedale

This game was very close. But what gave Grovedale the victory, was their ability to convert. The Tigers also had four individual goal scorers to Newtown & Chilwell’s two. Emily Kenshole was the leading goal kicker on the ground with a pair of majors for Newtown & Chilwell, while Chloe Adams and newly crowned Division 1 Best & Fairest winner Alana Tully, were among the best for Grovedale.

Unfortunately, this is the end of the road for the Eagles after finishing third on the ladder to finish their Home & Away season. For Grovedale, it’s off to McDonald Reserve to face St Mary’s. As stated before, the Tigers haven’t been able to defeat St Mary’s all year, but this is Finals, and anything can happen on the day.

Best

Newtown & Chilwell: C. Blakeway, R. Goring, A. Favell, M. Morrissy, B. Murphy-Bowen, M. Janssen

Grovedale: C. Adams, T. Hassett, A. Tully, E. Worpel, O. Kyatt, A. McLean

Goals

Newtown & Chilwell: 2 E. Kenshole, B. Wells

Grovedale: C. Adams, W. Hoffmann, D. Lodge, A. McLean

Final Score

Newtown & Chilwell: 3.6 (24)

Grovedale: 4.3 (27)

Women’s Senior Division 2

Elimination Finals: St Mary’s vs Torquay

Talk about an upset. St Mary’s have defeated Torquay twice this season but in Finals the past means naught. The Saints were in control for three terms, but due to sheer willpower, the Tigers got back in the game and pinched victory in the final term. Jaimie Castledine and Grace O'Kane each finished with two goals for their respective teams while Vanessa Rischitelli was named Best on Ground for Torquay.

Early in the season, Torquay and Drysdale have had some nailbiters. Drysdale got the chocolates in Round 1, but Grovedale snatched victory from the Hawks in Round 5. The Last time they met, however, Drysdale were dominant. This should be a tight contest with the winner going on to meet St Joseph’s at the big dance.

Best

St Mary’s: L. McDonald, B. Gaylor, V. Nihill, S. Everitt, E. Host, H. Stansfield

Torquay: V. Rischitelli, B. Angell, K. Ryan, S. O'Meara, K. Doonan, G. O'Kane

Goals

St Mary’s: 2 J. Castledine, C. Elsworth, M. Sherman

Torquay: 2 G. O'Kane, J. Maney, L. Owens, Private Player

Final Score

St Mary’s: 4.3 (27)

Torquay: 5.3 (33)

Qualifying Finals: St Joseph’s vs Drysdale

After a slow start, St Joseph’s jumped Drysdale in the second term and continued their dominance until the final siren. Charlotte Simpson had a day out for Joey’s while Jane Burch and Emmalyn Nekrep combined to score four majors. Jessie Morrow played a good game on a tough day for Drysdale.

The Hawks now have a chance at redemption heading into the Preliminary Finals this weekend. Their output in the last match against Grovedale was superb, but Grovedale will be no easy target. The Hawks will have to fight for four quarters if they want to make the Grand Final.

Best

St Joseph’s: C. Simpson, K. West, Z. Penno, K. Hardingham, A. Greaves, T. Lewis

Drysdale: J. Morrow, K. Atkinson, Tahli Benson, Emily Allan, Tara Smith, Josie Taylor

Goals

St Joseph’s: 2 J. Burch, 2 E. Nekrep, K. Hardingham, G. Incigneri, K. Kvant, T. Lewis, C. Simpson, M. Vials

Drysdale: M. Judd

Final Score

St Joseph’s: 10.11 (71)

Drysdale: 1.4 (10)

Women’s Senior Division 3

Qualifying Finals: Anglesea vs South Barwon

Like most of the ladder leaders throughout the Women’s Senior Divisions, Anglesea was victorious. But not by much. They almost lost the game due to pure inaccuracy despite owning the ball. With 15 scoring shots, they only converted two. South Barwon just fell away by four points. Division 3 Best & Fairest winner Maggie Caudullo, was named the best for the Swans with two majors.

Anglesea has punched in their Grand Final ticket as South Barwon prepares to face a defiant North Geelong outfit. The Swans have had a healthy record over the Magpies, but in their last match, South Barwon only won by three points. Beware the Magpies!

Best

Anglesea: l. Firth, P. Lingam, R. Krenkels, O. Ritchie, A. Abbott, S. Bray

South Barwon: M. Caudullo, D. Wilson, J. Johnston, M. Puckett, A. Nicholson, C. Cox

Goals

Anglesea: l. Firth, C. King

South Barwon: 2 M. Caudullo, T. Coleman

Final Score

Anglesea: 2.13 (25)

South Barwon: 3.3 (21)

Elimination Finals: Lara vs North Geelong

A quick start by North Geelong saw Lara fight back in the second term. The third quarter turned into a tug of war, but in the final act, North Geelong put the foot on the accelerator to claim a convincing win. Division 3 Best & Fairest Runner Up Faith Qoon, was named among the best for North Geelong with Kaitlyn Bonney & Cecilia Lowrey, scoring two snags apiece. The best for Lara was Kara Stacey.

Lara's journey has come to an end, but North Geelong have an upcoming fight on their hands. South Barwon will be eager to make amends after losing a tight game to Anglesea. But the Magpies are every chance to win this game and make the Grand Final. It’s a big fight before the main event this Sunday at McDonald Reserve.

Best

Lara: K. Stacey, Private player, E. Wilson-Macdonald, E. Henda, K. Smith, P. Scott

North Geelong: J. Coleman, F. Qoon, C. Lowrey, A. Scheitner, M. Rentsch, K. Bonney

Goals

Lara: 2 E. Henda, K. Smith

North Geelong: 2 K. Bonney, 2 C. Lowrey, J. Coleman, F. Qoon

Final Score

Lara: 3.7 (25)

North Geelong: 6.4 (40)