Lisa Patterson appointed new AFL Barwon Region General Manager

AFL Barwon is pleased to announce the appointment of Lisa Patterson as the new Region General Manager.

Lisa steps into the role following a successful 13-month tenure as AFL Barwon’s Group Manager of Operations, where she oversaw football and netball competitions across the region.

Lisa brings a wealth of experience in operations, community engagement, and leadership, positioning her to drive the continued growth and innovation of football and netball in the Barwon region. She has been instrumental in delivering key initiatives, including the introduction of female football day of play and a division restructure for the 2025 season, aimed at enhancing participation and visibility for women in sport.

Prior to joining AFL Barwon in March 2024, Lisa forged a 15-year career in retail banking and spent five years working for a State Government member in Launceston, Tasmania. In both roles, she was deeply engaged in community initiatives, reflecting her longstanding commitment to grassroots sport. Lisa is a current member of the Board of Basketball Tasmania, further highlighting her passion for sport and her experience in governance. Lisa has been involved in local football committees in Tasmania, contributing to her experience at the grassroots level.

It is an important time for football and netball in the Barwon region, with ambitious growth and retention aspirations across all forms of participation. Lisa’s appointment as Regional Manager, officially commencing on 30 April, represents a significant step forward in achieving these objectives. Lisa will continue to focus on strengthening the connection between the AFL Barwon community and the broader football and netball landscape, driving key initiatives that support the region’s goals for growth, inclusion, and sustainability.

Lisa will work closely with the competition management team at AFL Barwon, Geelong & District FNL & Colac & District FNL on developing the capability & capacity of the competitions, in line with the Role of AFL Victoria. 

Upon her appointment, Patterson expressed her enthusiasm:​

“I’m honoured to step into the role of Region General Manager at AFL Barwon. My journey in community sport has been incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to support and grow our local football and netball communities.”

“The past 12 months at AFL Barwon have given me valuable insight into the organisation and its member clubs. I’m excited to build on that foundation and help drive continued growth and progression across the region.”

“I’m eager to begin delivering on our key business priorities and working closely with clubs to continue to support and strengthen relationships within community sport in the Barwon region.”

AFL Barwon Chair Michelle Gerdtz welcomed Patterson’s appointment, stating:

“Lisa’s extensive experience and passion for community sport make her an outstanding fit for the Region General Manager role. Her leadership and guidance will be invaluable as we work toward delivering some key strategic outcomes and projects.”

“Lisa has already made a significant impact during her time with AFL Barwon. Her strategic vision and strong commitment to community engagement make her the ideal leader to guide the organisation into its next chapter.”

AFL Victoria Community Growth Manager, Jack Henty stated

“The Regional Manager role is the key leadership position for AFL Victoria in the Barwon region for Game Development, working closely with the community & our key industry partners on leading the agenda for growth & sustainability of our code. Lisa demonstrated in the recruitment process that she is a people focused leader, with a proven track record for developing strong relationships with a broad range of stakeholders”

AFL Barwon congratulates Lisa on her appointment and looks forward to her continued leadership in supporting and growing both sports across the region.