GFNL Grand Final to remain at Kardinia Park under new three-year agreement

AFL Barwon, Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and the Geelong Cats have joined forces to secure GMHBA Stadium and the Kardinia Park Precinct as the home of the GFNL Grand Final for at least the next three years.

The announcement formalises a shared commitment to delivering a high-quality, community-centred Grand Final experience at Victoria’s premier regional sporting venue. 

The 2024 and 2025 Blood Toyota GFNL Grand Finals were held at Kardinia Park, attracting more than 20,000 spectators through the gates. A further 20,000 viewers tuned in via live broadcast coverage.

The event continues to play a significant role across the wider Barwon community, with supporters travelling from across Victoria and interstate to attend last year’s Grand Final.

AFL Barwon CEO Kate Patterson said “We’re in such a fortunate and unique position, being the only region in Victoria with an AFL club. Through this partnership with the Geelong Cats and KPST, we’re able to offer our clubs, players and supporters the chance to celebrate their biggest moment on a world-class stage.

“It’s an opportunity very few community football and netball leagues ever get, and we’re incredibly proud to be able to bring that experience to the GFNL.”

Kardinia Park Stadium Trust CEO Gerard Griffin said “At Kardinia Park Stadium Trust, community is one of our core pillars, so we are thrilled to support the Geelong Football and Netball League Grand Finals at the Kardinia Park precinct over the next three years. This event is a highlight in our calendar and is the only community league football match to be held at an AFL stadium in Victoria. 

“We’re proud to partner with AFL Barwon and Geelong Football Club to help deliver such a memorable experience for the players and community." 

Geelong Cats Chief Operating Officer Marcus King said "We’re excited to see the GFNL Grand Finals returning to GMHBA Stadium and the broader Kardinia Park precinct for the next three years. Community football and netball is such a significant part of our region, and it is fitting that local football and netball grand finals will continue to be showcased on the biggest stage in Geelong. 

“It will also be a great opportunity for the football community to enjoy a huge week of football, with the GFNL Grand Finals to follow the AFLW match against Hawthorn at GMHBA Stadium on the Thursday night of AFL Grand Final week.” 

The 2026 GFNL Grand Final will be played on Victoria’s Grand Final Public Holiday on Friday 25 September including 3 games of football and 12 games of netball. Further announcements on 2026 Finals Series venues will be made in the coming weeks.

Further information on the event will be available via the AFL Barwon website and AFL Barwon social media platforms.