Beyond the Boundary Edition #47
FROM THE REGION MANAGER
Shaun Connell
Goulburn Murray Region Council - Expressions of Interest Open
AFL Victoria is seeking Expressions of Interest from community leaders and professionals to join the newly established Goulburn Murray Region Council.
The Council will provide leadership and regional insight to AFL Victoria & community stakeholders on matters including participation growth, club sustainability, facilities, competition development and other game development priorities.
AFL Victoria is encouraging applications from individuals with experience in governance, leadership, football leadership, business, law, infrastructure, stakeholder engagement, government, marketing, risk management and community development. The Council will comprise three to five volunteer members appointed by the AFL Victoria Board.
Regional Manager Goulburn Murray, Shaun Connell, said the Council would ensure local knowledge and expertise continue to help shape the future of football across the region.
Expressions of Interest are now open.
For further information CLICK HERE or a confidential discussion, contact Shaun Connell at shaun.connell@afl.com.au
Be part of the discussion in growing women and girls football.
Women and girls football across the Goulburn Murray has experienced remarkable growth, driven by the dedication of players, families, clubs, coaches, volunteers, officials and umpires.
As the competition transitions into the newly established Goulburn Murray League, we have an exciting opportunity to plan for the future and ensure the competition remains strong, inclusive and sustainable for years to come.
To support this process, a Women and Girls Football Forum will bring together clubs, participants and key stakeholders to explore future opportunities for junior girls, youth and women's football. The forum will provide a valuable opportunity to share ideas, discuss challenges and help shape future football pathways across the region.
Ahead of the forum, we are seeking feedback from players, parents, coaches, volunteers, umpires, club officials and community members with an interest in women and girls football. Please click the image below to complete the short survey.
Importantly, no decisions have been made. Feedback gathered through this survey will help identify key themes and inform discussion at the forum, ensuring future planning reflects the views of those involved in the competition.
Together, we can create a stronger, more inclusive and sustainable future for women and girls football across the Goulburn Murray region.
Help Shape the Future of Football in the Goulburn Murray Region
The formation of the new Goulburn Murray League marks an exciting new chapter for community football and netball, and we're looking for passionate and skilled individuals to help lead the journey.
Expressions of Interest are now open for appointment to the League's inaugural permanent Board.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the strategy, governance and long-term success of a new regional sporting organisation. We welcome people with diverse skills, experience and perspectives who are committed to building strong, sustainable community sport across junior football and netball, and women’s and girls’ football.
An interim Board has been established to oversee the League's transition and formation. Following incorporation and the completion of key establishment activities, appointments will be made to the inaugural Board in accordance with the League Constitution.
The voluntary interim Board will continue to work closely with AFL Victoria to support transition planning, competition delivery and future organisational development.
If you are interested in helping shape the future of football and netball across the Goulburn Murray region, we encourage you to submit an Expression of Interest.
For more information and to access the Board Member Position Description and Nomination Form:
here EOI GML Board.
Mitchell Shire Sports Forum Brings Sporting Community Together
At the end of last month, I had the pleasure of attending the inaugural Mitchell Shire Council Sports Forum, bringing together representatives from local sporting clubs, state and local sporting associations, government representatives and key stakeholders from across the sporting sector. The event also featured an insightful keynote presentation from Professor Rochelle Eime of Federation University.
The forum was designed to encourage collaboration, share best practice and explore the future of sport and recreation across the Mitchell Shire. Professor Eime's presentation highlighted the critical factors that drive successful participation in community sport, reinforcing that long-term success is not simply about growing numbers, but about creating positive environments and experiences that encourage people to stay involved.
Her insights into participant retention and engagement provided valuable learnings that will help shape our future approach to supporting community sport.
The forum was exceptionally well attended, with strong engagement and discussion throughout the day. It was encouraging to see so many organisations working together to strengthen opportunities for participation and ensure local sport continues to thrive across the Mitchell Shire.
Goulburn Murray - Engaged and Delivering
In Case you Missed It:
Upcoming Key Dates
September
📅 September 12 / KDL Grand Finals (Mooroopna)
📅 September 12 / ML Preliminary Finals (Finley)
📅 September 13 / GVL Preliminary Finals (Deakin Reserve)
📅 September 19 / ML Grand Finals (Moama)
📅 September 20 / GVL Grand Finals (Deakin Reserve)
📅 September 21 / Toyota Good for Footy Raffle Closes
We’re Here to Help!
Our team is on hand to support you across all areas:
AFL Victoria
Governance, Strategy, Facilities, Partnerships & Governance – Shaun Connell
Club Development & Experience – Sam Monaghan
Participation Team – Kevin Monaghan & Mel Saunders
RAC Operational Support – Jo Spencer (HOO), Andrew Moore (GVFUA), Brad Noonan (GVL), Derek Lee (KDL), Connor Noakes (GMJ), Sam Heron (GMW&G), Jo Backway (Netball), Michelle Adams (Finance)
Murray League – Dale Norman
ASC Sport Volunteering Resource Hub 
Good Sports 
Club Committee Roles - Role Description Templates
Good Sports Portal - Updated
We’ve refreshed the Good Sports Portal. New questions, clearer actions, and updated resources are now live in your Portal. Whatever level you're at, there's a quick win waiting.
What’s changed?
Questions are clearer and more concise
New and updated resources
A refreshed policy and new certificate when you get there.
Log in HERE to see for yourself.
Reach out to your Good Sports contact, Carly Rooney-Ewen at carly.rooney-ewen@adf.org.au, if you have any questions.
Child Safeguarding Requirements
Clubs are legally required to comply with the Victorian Child Safe Standards (VCCS), however, the VCCS doesn’t explicitly call out the need for clubs to have a Child Safety Officer (CSO). However, appointing a CSO is a positive step towards meeting the requirements outlined in the VCCS to ensure a safe environment.
The AFL has a Club Safeguarding Checklist on the Play AFL website along with a Child Safeguarding Officer position description which will help clubs. In addition to this, Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) also has a range of resources available.
Please head here for more information or to report a child safeguarding matter, please lodge through the AFL Integrity Portal or contact AFLGM Club Development Lead for further guidance and support.
Toyota Good for Footy Raffle 
Australian Sports Foundation - fundraising platform 
PILA Goal Post Subsidy
Toyota Good for Footy Raffle
The Toyota Good for Footy Raffle gives 100% of funds raised helping invest in the things that matter most to your players, volunteers and community. Tickets are just $5. Plus, you could win one of three brand new Toyota vehicles, exclusive AFL experiences, coaching clinics and more. When your club raises funds, it builds a stronger season ahead. That's Good for Footy! Ticket sales close 21 September 2026 at 12.00pm
PILA Goal Post Subsidy
From Auskick to senior footy, quality facilities help create a better experience for players, volunteers and supporters alike. That's why PILA Group is offering subsidies of up to $1,000 (including GST) per approved AFL goal post application. Don't miss the opportunity to upgrade your club's facilities and get game-day ready for the seasons ahead. Applications close 30 September
$500 subsidy for Auskick to Regional goal post sizes
$1,000 subsidy for State to National goal post sizes
Australian Sports Foundation
Grassroots football clubs should consider using the Australian Sports Foundation as it allows clubs to raise funds through tax-deductible donations. This makes it easier to attract support from individuals, businesses and major donors while increasing credibility and reach. Clubs can use the platform to fundraise for projects such as facility upgrades, equipment, participation programs and other club development initiatives.
Unders: Programs to Juniors
AFL SCHOOL HOLIDAYS ARE BACK IN THE GOULBURN MURRAY
Get ready for a full day of footy excitement, awesome games, and skills that’ll make you a star on the field!
When: Over 2 weeks in September & October Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Where: Goulburn Murray region
Cost: Just $55 to join the fun! (Includes a free footy to keep)
Register and find out more here
Hurry - spots are limited and filling fast!Don’t miss out - come join the fun and kick off your holidays with a bang!
For more information: kevin.monaghan@afl.com.au or mel.saunders@afl.com.au
BHP AFLW Community Coach of the Year 
Creating an Inclusive Environment
2026 BHP AFLW Community Coach of the Year
Behind every thriving women’s and girls’ footy team is a coach who goes above and beyond. Whether they're building confidence, creating opportunities, inspiring the next generation or helping players fall in love with the game, these coaches make a lasting impact both on and off the field.
The BHP AFLW Community Coach of the Year Award celebrates the incredible people driving the growth of women’s and girls’ football in communities across Australia.
Know a coach making a difference in your community? Nominations for 2026 are now open.
Nominate here: BHP AFLW Community Coach of the Year - Intellistack (closes 30/09/2026)
AFL VIC Coaches Forum 2027
AFL Vic will once again be hosting the AFL Victoria Coaches Forum in 2027. A date has been confirmed, and the event will once again be hosted at the MCG, this time on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 February. This will also be part of a wider AFL Victoria Season Launch event for several streams of community football, more details on this event will be coming shortly.
Laws of the Game 
AFLGM - Respect in Footy 
Become an Umpire
Women & Girls Community Football Charter 
Online Club Charter Workshops 
AFL Vic Women & Girls Chartered Club Grants 2025
AFL Women & Girls Charter
Signing up to the AFL Women & Girls' Charter demonstrates a club's commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming environment for women and girls at all levels of the game.
The Charter supports clubs to strengthen participation, leadership and development opportunities, while reinforcing positive club culture, respect and equality. This should be a straightforward decision for every club president in the region.
Click the link to get started - W&G Charter
Netball Assist 
Committee Resources 
NV Asset Library
Important Reminders:
Netball Administration Workshop - Greater Shepparton & North Eastern Zone. Date: Sunday 11 October 2026 10am-2pm Shepparton. This practical in person workshop is designed to support you to step back, reset, and build a more sustainable way of operating. Whether you are currently managing administration, supporting your committee, or looking to step into a paid role, this session will show you what effective netball administration looks like and how to get there.
Important Update - Transaction Fee Charge Changes effective 1st October 2026
As mentioned in previous emails, transaction fee changes are being applied across all businesses in Australia from 1st October 2026. This is due to the Reserve Bank changes and means that credit card transaction and payment platform fees can no longer be added as a separate surcharge at checkout and must be included in the total advertised price. This is really important for associations, league and clubs to understand before you open registration in 2027 (registration will open in October). To learn more about what you have to do please click here
Reminder: where to find Help and Support on our website
To help you find the information you need we have added a new “Help & Support” tab to our website. This sits in the top right-hand corner of our webpage and will take you to our resource search page where you can search for information or submit a ticket to our support team.
Sideline Behaviour Management – Marketing Campaign Assets
As we approach finals for many it’s important to remind our netball communities of expected behaviour and game management. We will be sending out a separate email to all associations and leagues shortly but to assist you with getting the message across, Netball Victoria has developed "Respect isn't optional" marketing assets that you can print off, use in social media campaigns & post around your courts. These marketing assets can be found in our "Asset Library" on our website under the "Community " tab. The "Respect isn't optional" marketing assets are in the "Community & Behaviour" section. Please click here for link Asset Library - Netball VIC
Code of Conduct Update
Netball Australia have released the Code of Conduct for Community Netball. This sets out the standards of behaviour that are expected of all associations, leagues and clubs and relevant persons in our sport - including those individuals that are registered with a Member Organisation such as players, umpires, coaches, administrators and volunteers, as well as parents and spectators – whether in-person or online. Please note that this Policy supersedes and replaces the previous Netball Victoria Codes of Conduct. You can view the Code of Conduct here Code of Conduct - Netball VIC
Talent Academy 2027
Talent Academy Training Dates – important for planning in 2027
The 2027 Talent Academy training dates for 2027 are below. Please refer to these when planning tournaments in 2027.
Date | Start | Finish | Comments |
Sunday 14 March | 9:00am | 12:00pm | |
Sunday 21 March | 10:00am | 12:00pm | CW - 11:30am-1:30pm |
Sunday 18 April | 10:00am | 12:00pm | |
Sunday 2 May | 10:00am | 12:00pm | |
Sunday 6 June | 10:00am | 12:00pm | CW - 11:30am-1:30pm |
Sunday 18 July | 8:30am | 4:00pm | |
Sunday 25 July | 10:00am | 12:00pm | |
Sunday 8 August | 8:00am | 5:00pm |
Partner Offers & Grants / Facilities:
Front Runners - Carpool Grant
With petrol and diesel prices set to rise again, FrontRunners, a non-profit founded by David Pocock, is looking for clubs interested in being part of a carpooling pilot program to help reduce environmental impact and save money.
Grants of up to $2500 are available for individual community clubs. Interested in hearing more? Email team@frontrunners.org.au with 'carpool pilot' in your subject line. More information here FrontRunners carpool invitation (1).pdf
Netball Victoria Community Support Grants – Hardship & Disaster Relief funding
Netball Victoria has established the 2026 Disaster Relief Program under its Community Support Program to provide targeted financial assistance to affiliated clubs, associations, leagues and families impacted by natural disaster events during 2026. The hardship grant can also be accessed and applied for through this link. Community Support Program - Netball VIC
Updated Facilities Guide, Advocacy Checklist and Resources
Netball Australia has just released an updated Facilities Guide. To view this resource and to access all information relating to facilities - including your advocacy checklist, the NV Compliance Fact Sheet and other useful resources - please visit the Facilities page on our website Facilities Resources - Netball VIC
For specific club support, please get in touch with the Club Development Lead:
Sam Monaghan
0407 147 563
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