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Surf Coast FNC Bellarine FNL Application Outcome

29 May 2024

The AFL Barwon Commission issues this release, to provide an update on the status of Surf Coast FNC’s application to join the Bellarine FNL.

Surf Coast FNC’s application for entry in 2026 has been ratified by the AFL Barwon Commission.

This update comes following significant deliberation between AFL Barwon and the Surf Coast FNC, assessing their application for entry into the Bellarine FNL.

This review has taken place through several face-to-face engagements, in-line with League Entry criteria, including but not limited to:

  1. Facilities;
  2. Financials;
  3. Participation; and
  4. Club Development.

In addition to these engagements, the Commission have conversed in depth with Surf Coast FNC to understand in appropriate context:

  1. Surf Coast FNC’s Strategic Plan for the future, to support their growth and sustainability;
  2. How Surf Coast FNC’s Male Football & Netball programs will expand to encompass Senior disciplines; and
  3. How Surf Coast FNC plan to become a viable Club within to the Bellarine FNL, providing mutual benefits to the Bellarine FNL with their inclusion.

As part of this process, the AFL Barwon Commission have been steadfast in ensuring all Bellarine FNL Clubs have been provided the opportunity to be consulted and engaged, as part of this process. A meeting with Club representatives on 22 April 2024, as well as last night (29 May 2024), has provided these opportunities, in addition to the AFLB Future of Football & Netball Project works that commenced in September 2023.

Following last night’s (29 May 2024) meeting with Bellarine FNL Club representatives, the AFL Barwon Commission convened a Special Commission Meeting to review the final discussions with the Bellarine FNL Club representatives, and come to a decision on Surf Coast FNC’s application to the Bellarine FNL.

The AFL Barwon Commission during this special meeting, passed a motion unanimously in favour of accepting Surf Coast FNC’s application into the Bellarine FNL, for 2026.

This decision marks a significant moment for both the Bellarine FNL, and the Surf Coast FNC. With a total participant base across Male Football & Netball programs exceeding 400, an U18 Male Football side and several years of top-age Netballers’ participation restricted, this decision provides Surf Coast FNC a platform for the future, and will contribute significantly to the future success of the Bellarine FNL.

AFL Barwon extends its gratitude to all Bellarine FNL Clubs and the Surf Coast FNC, for their respective involvements and contributions to this process.

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