We’re excited to announce our upcoming Coach Induction Workshops, designed to support both new and returning coaches for the upcoming season.

There will be two inductions offered in March, with an induction for returning coaches being held in Colac and an induction for new coaches being held in Geelong. 

Colac Induction Workshop (Returning Coaches)

For returning coaches, we’ve created a workshop to help you refresh your skills and stay current for the year ahead. This session is a great opportunity to ensure you’re an accredited coach and ready for the challenges of the upcoming season

12 March
Upstairs - Colac RSL
6:30PM-8.00PM

Geelong Induction Workshop (New Coaches)

If you’re a new coach for the season ahead, this workshop is tailored for you! We’ll cover the basic principles of the game and clarify your role as a coach.

19 March
Elderslie Reserve (Newtown & Chilwell FNC)
6:30PM-8.00PM

Register Here

Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any questions.

AFL Barwon is thrilled to announce that Henry Buckley has been promoted to the VFL Development Squad for the 2025 season. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Henry’s umpiring journey and reflects his dedication, skill, and commitment to continuous improvement.

Capping off an outstanding 2024 season, Henry officiated the GFL Grand Final, demonstrating his ability to perform under high-pressure situations. His consistent excellence in game management, decision-making, and passion for the game has made him a standout within the AFL Barwon umpiring group. His hard work, both on and off the field, has been instrumental in earning his selection for the VFL Development Squad. 

The VFL Development Squad serves as a crucial stepping stone for umpires aiming to officiate at the highest levels of Australian Rules Football. Henry’s promotion is a testament to his potential and the strength of AFL Barwon’s umpiring pathway.

Images by Great Ocean Photography.

AFL Barwon Director of Football Umpiring Jock Hillgrove praised Henry’s progress:

“Henry has shown tremendous growth over the past few seasons. His work ethic, professionalism, and ability to adapt to the game at higher levels make him a well-deserving candidate for the VFL Development Squad. We’re excited to see him take this next step and continue developing as an elite umpire.”

Henry’s promotion also highlights the opportunities available for aspiring umpires within AFL Barwon. With a strong focus on development and coaching, the umpiring program continues to produce high-quality officials ready for the next level.

Congratulations to Henry Buckley on this fantastic achievement! We look forward to seeing him thrive in the VFL Development Squad and wish him all the best for the 2025 season.

AFL Barwon wishes to advise of several fixture changes for the 2025 season across both Bellarine & Geelong Football and Netball competitions.

Please see all the updated match times and dates below:

Twilight Matches for Colac in Round 0 and Round 3

Colac vs Bell Park (Round 0) will feature a twilight Senior Football match kicking off at 5:30pm, while A Grade Netball will commence at 3:50pm

Colac vs South Barwon (Round 3) will also be played under twilight conditions, with Senior Football starting at 5:30pm and A Grade Netball at 3:50pm.

ANZAC Day Night Clash: Newcomb vs Ocean Grove

Newcomb vs Ocean Grove clash has been rescheduled to an ANZAC Day night fixture, adding to the significance of the day in the Bellarine FNL. Both Senior Football and A Grade Netball will now take place under lights, with first bounce and first centre pass at 6:30pm.

This change marks a shift from the traditional scheduling and enhances the ANZAC Day proceedings in the region, complementing the existing Portarlington vs Drysdale fixture earlier in the day. 

South Barwon vs Leopold moved back to Saturday

The highly anticipated Grand Final rematch between South Barwon and Leopold has been rescheduled to Saturday, May 24th, reverting to traditional time slots after originally set for Sunday May 25th.

Leopold vs St Joseph’s Netball Venue Change

The Leopold vs St Joseph’s A Grade Netball match, originally scheduled to be played in Lorne, will now be played at Leopold on Saturday, April 12th due to court issues.

For the latest fixture updates and matchday information, stay tuned to the AFL Barwon website and social media channels.