AFL Barwon wishes to advise that, following an agreement between the two clubs, there will be a change to the Round 7 fixture. The match between Colac and St Mary’s, originally scheduled for Saturday, 6 June, will now be played on Saturday, 11 April at Central Reserve.
A Grade Netball will start at 3:00pm, followed by the Senior Football match at 4:30pm.
This early-season clash promises to be an exciting contest, giving both clubs the opportunity to set the tone for the 2026 season.
The updated version of the 2026 Blood Toyota Geelong FNL Fixture can be found below.
AFL Barwon wishes to advise that, following an agreement between the clubs, all football and netball matches for North Shore versus Newtown & Chilwell, originally scheduled for Sunday, 26 April, will now be played on Friday, 24 April at Windsor Park.
The Reserves match will kick off at 6:00pm, followed by the Senior Football game at 8:10pm, while Netball times are yet to be confirmed.
The updated version of the 2026 Blood Toyota Geelong FNL Fixture can be found below.
AFL Barwon has confirmed a number of on-field rule changes that will apply across all competitive age competitions for the 2026 season.
These updates reflect the AFL’s recently announced rule amendments, with AFL Barwon adopting four of the nine changes. A summary of the on-field rule adjustments to be implemented next season is outlined below.
Further detail on the applicable rule changes will be provided by the AFL Barwon Umpiring Department once official guidance is received from the AFL.
Clubs will also have the opportunity to receive additional information on these competition rule changes in person at the AFL Barwon Club Education Event on Sunday, March 1.
Last Disposal
Introduce a Free Kick for the last disposal Out of Bounds in between the 50m arcs. This rule interpretation will replace the last possession rule that is officiated across competitions.
Centre Ball Up Contests
At all centre ball-ups, a competing Ruck cannot cross the Centre Circle line and engage with the opposition Ruck, prior to contesting the football.
Shrugging in the Tackle
A shrug (in a tackle) will be deemed Prior Opportunity (i.e. an attempt to evade or fend an opponent).
Ruck Nominations
Around the ground, the umpire may restart play without a nominated Ruck present. The aim is to get play starting again as soon as possible once the area is clear.
AFL Barwon has confirmed changes to the structure of the Kardinia Park All-Abilities Football Netball League competitions for the 2026 season, introducing two distinct football divisions designed to better support participation, safety, and long-term growth.
From 2026, the All-Abilities football competition will be separated into:
A Contact Division, which will maintain the dynamic, competitive nature and rules of the current competition, and
A Non-Contact Division, designed to support non-tackle participants and provide an accessible entry point for players seeking a modified football experience.
The introduction of a non-contact division reflects AFL Barwon’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and participation, ensuring players of all abilities can engage in the game in an environment that best suits their needs.
The clubs participating in the All-Abilities Football Netball League will remain the same as in 2025 across both competitions, with one adjustment. Following a collaborative agreement between the two clubs, Newtown & Chilwell will fill the non-competitive position previously held by Bell Park in the non-contact football competition. This agreement supports continuity within the league while allowing both clubs to align their participation with their respective objectives.
AFL Barwon will continue to administer both competitions, working closely with clubs, participants, and stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition into the new structure.
These changes form part of AFL Barwon’s commitment to developing a long-term growth strategy for the Kardinia Park All-Abilities Football Netball League, focused on creating clear and inclusive participation pathways, supporting sustainable club involvement, and identifying strategic growth opportunities across the region.
Further information regarding competition governance and fixturing will be shared with clubs and the broader community ahead of the 2026 season.
AFL Barwon provides governance and strategy development for Football and Netball across the Barwon region.
We are excited to welcome work experience participants into our team and provide a valuable learning and development experience. Our program is designed to give students or recent graduates real-world exposure to the operations of a dynamic organisation, hands-on opportunities to contribute, and the ability to explore different areas of our business.
What We Offer
As part of your time with us, you’ll gain hands-on experience working alongside a passionate and experienced team, allowing you to contribute meaningfully to our day-to-day operations. You’ll also gain insight into all areas of the business, including (but not limited to)
Operations and Administration
Events and Competitions
Community Engagement
Governance and Compliance
You will receive mentorship and guidance from team members across the Football and/or Netball department, helping you build both knowledge and confidence in your work. You'll also have the opportunity to attend meetings, events, and planning sessions to gain a broader understanding of how the organisation operates. Throughout your placement, we aim to provide an environment that aligns with your individual goals, while supporting the needs of the organisation.
