AFL Barwon and its affiliated clubs will once again come together this Anzac Day weekend to honour and recognise those who have served our country, while continuing the long-standing tradition of community football and netball.

Across the Bellarine and Geelong Football Netball Leagues, a number of matches will be complemented by dedicated Anzac services, providing a meaningful opportunity for players, volunteers and supporters to reflect, connect and pay their respects as part of a significant day on the Australian sporting calendar. 

A full rundown of the Anzac fixtures and a list of FAQ's can be found below:

North Shore vs Newtown & Chilwell - Friday 24^th April

6:00pm Reserves game commences

6:25pm B grade and E grade first centre pass

7:50pm Anzac service commences 

8.20pm Senior football game commences

8.25pm D grade and C grade games first centre pass

St Joseph's vs South Barwon - Saturday 25^th April

10:20am C grade netball first centre pass

10:30am Reserves football game commences

11:10am D grade netball first centre pass

11:30am B grade netball first centre pass

12:50pm Anzac service commences

1:40pm Senior football game commences

1:45pm E grade netball game first centre pass

2:00pm A grade netball game first centre pass

5:00pm Senior female football game commences

Geelong West vs St Albans - Saturday 25th April

10:05am D grade netball first centre pass

11:10am C grade netball first centre pass

12:00pm Reserves football game commences

12:15pm B grade and E grade netball first centre pass

1:45pm Anzac ceremony commences

2:00pm A grade netball game first centre pass

2:10pm Senior football game commences

Portarlington vs Drysdale  - Saturday 25^th April

11:00am Reserves football game commences

11:15am D grade netball first centre pass

12:15pm B grade netball first centre pass

1:00pm Anzac service commences

1:45pm Senior football game commences

2:45pm A grade and E grade netball first centre pass

Newcomb vs Ocean Grove - Saturday 25th April

2:00pm C grade first centre pass

2:15pm Reserves football game commences

3:00pm B grade and D grade netball first centre pass

4:40pm Anzac service commences

5:10pm Senior football, A grade and E grade netball games commence

Anzac Day Fixtures – Frequently Asked Questions

Why are games being played on Anzac Day?

Anzac Day is a significant and deeply respected occasion for all Australians. Community football and netball have a long-standing tradition of playing on Anzac Day when it falls on a weekend, providing an opportunity for clubs and communities to come together, reflect and honour those who have served.

Across AFL Barwon competitions, this is supported through ceremonies held prior to senior matches played on ANZAC Day.

Why are junior matches scheduled on Anzac Day in 2026?

Junior fixtures form part of the broader season structure. In 2026, the timing of the school holidays created challenges in determining appropriate start dates, resulting in some junior matches being scheduled on Anzac Day.

Are clubs still able to attend Anzac Day services?

Yes. Where possible, matches have been scheduled later in the morning to allow players, families and volunteers to attend local commemorative services.

Any matches commencing prior to 10:00am have only been scheduled following consultation with, and at the request of, the participating clubs.

Is it permitted to play sport on Anzac Day?

Yes, community sport can be played on Anzac Day in Victoria, subject to specific conditions under the Anzac Day Act.

• Sporting events that do not charge an entry fee or seek donations can proceed without Ministerial approval
• Events that do charge admission or seek donations require Ministerial approval and must not start before 1:00pm

AFL Barwon fixtures comply with these requirements in line with Victorian Government guidance.

Are there any entry fees being charged on ANZAC Day?

No. There will be no entry fees charged across the Bellarine FNL, Geelong FNL or Senior Female Football competitions on Anzac Day.

This ensures all matches align with Victorian Government guidelines and can proceed without the need for Ministerial approval.

What are the liquor licensing rules on Anzac Day?

Licensed venues, including sporting club facilities, must comply with Anzac Day trading restrictions in Victoria.

• Liquor cannot be served before 12:00pm (midday) unless specific licence conditions or exemptions apply
• From 12:00pm onwards, licensed venues may trade in accordance with their normal licence conditions
• Clubs should ensure they understand their individual licence requirements and any restrictions that apply to their venue

These requirements are set by the Victorian Government and apply to all licensed venues operating on ANZAC Day.

The Victorian Government licensed trading venues I formation can be found here | https://www.vic.gov.au/public-holiday-trading-for-licensed-venues#anzac-day 

Do Anzac Day guidelines apply to all sports?

Yes. The Victorian Government works with sporting organisations to ensure sport can take place while still respecting the significance of Anzac Day.

Clubs are encouraged to incorporate appropriate commemorative elements and, where possible, engage with their local RSL sub-branch when planning Anzac Day activities.

The Sport and Recreation Victoria guidelines can be found here | https://sport.vic.gov.au/news/2026/january/sports-make-sure-you-do-the-right-thing-by-anzac-day