League Statement | Gippsland League wishes to address recent reports regarding potential movement of clubs within the League and its affiliates.

The League has granted permission for both Wonthaggi Power Football Netball Club and Drouin Football & Netball Clubs to review their current and future strategic directions. Following an approach made to the Drouin F&NC by a neighbouring competition, the League has been advised that the club is undertaking further internal discussions and research regarding its long-term positioning.

Their process is yet to engage into the formal six-stage framework outlined for potential club transfers under AFL Victoria regulations. To facilitate club movement this framework requires consultation and approvals from AFL Victoria, the source league, and the destination league to progress. As highlighted by AFL Victoria policies, this structured process is designed to ensure a collaborative and strategic approach to community football, guided by the club transfer criteria key principles around evidence-based decision making in the best interests of the game, not individual clubs or competitions.

Gippsland League remains committed to ongoing strategic planning with our member clubs to ensure the long-term success, strength, and sustainability of our business and major football/netball competition.