Beyond the Boundary #Issue 31
- shaunconnell1
- Sep 26
- 2 min read
FROM THE REGION MANAGER
Finals time once again showcased the very best of community football and netball across the GVL, MFL and KDL. Crowds turned out in big numbers, with strong gates and fantastic atmosphere at every venue. Supporters were treated to some thrilling games from tight finishes in the GVL and MFL, and classic nail biters in the KDL, reminding us just how special our leagues are to the community.
A huge congratulations to all the Best and Fairest and Award winners in both football and netball. The Presentation Nights across all leagues have been well supported by their respective clubs and highlights strength of the community football and netball clubs.
In this edition of BYB please keep an eye out for the following updates;
AFL Nines is set to return in Moama and Shepparton this November, providing a fun, social way for people of all ages to enjoy the game.
Funding is now open through the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund and the Country Football Netball Program, helping clubs upgrade facilities and invest in their future.
We’re also proud to announce that our region will once again be strongly represented at the AFL Victoria Awards Night in October. Congratulations and best of luck to:
· Debbie McColl (Congupna FNC) – nominated for an AFL Merit Award
· Simon Walsh (GVFUA) nominated for the Community Umpire Award
· April Le Sueur (Rumbalara FNC) – nominated for Toyota Young Leader of the Year
On top of that, we’re thrilled to share that the region has exceeded its participation targets, with just under 10,000 participants across AFLGM community and program activations, an increase of more than 7% in engagement.
This growth is a testament to the strength of our clubs, volunteers, schools and community partners who continue to create opportunities for people to get involved in the game.
Thank you to all the players, coaches, umpires, volunteers and supporters who made this season one to remember.
The passion and commitment across our clubs and leagues continue to grow stronger every year, bring on 2026!
Check Out the Images and Media From the 2025 V/Line Cup below and on AFL Victoria Socials.
Shaun Connell
AFL Victoria Regional Manager - Goulburn Murray
We’re Here to Help!
Our team is on hand to support you across all areas:
Governance, Strategy, Facilities, Partnerships & Governance – Shaun Connell
Participation Team – Kevin Monaghan & Mel Saunders
Club Development & Experience – John Thompson
Operational Support – Jo Spencer, Brad Noonan (GVL), Connor Noakes (GMJ), Sam Heron (GMW&G), Jo Backway, Michelle Adams and Dale Norman (MFL)
From mid-December, the Australian Government will require certain social media services to take steps to prevent U16's from having accounts. As an early FYI, there are still specific details being developed but it is worth starting to consider:
(1) how young people and clubs currently use social media as part of their sport, and
(2) what policies, training or resources may need to be reviewed/updated.
For more information: click here
Free training webinar (Wed, Nov 12, 2025) click here
2025 V/Line - Representation from whole Region
For specific club support please get in touch with the Club Development Lead:
John Thompson
0422 768 867
Reading about all the finals action across the leagues really brings back that buzz of competition — nothing compares to the tension of a close game! It’s that same mix of excitement and strategy that keeps me following sports even off the field. Lately, I’ve been checking out https://cassinopix-au.com/ which focuses on online betting options in Australia. It’s a neat way to stay connected to the sporting spirit, especially when the season wraps up and you still crave that bit of thrill.