AFL Victoria (AFLV), AFL Goulburn Murray (AFLGM) and the Murray Football Netball League (MFL) acknowledge the decision of the Barooga Football Netball Club to withdraw from the Murray Football League; consequently, forfeiting their affiliation to AFL Goulburn Murray and the associated benefits.

AFLV, AFL, AFLGM and the MFL have met with the Barooga Football Netball Club to outline the implications for a non-affiliated club. This included the impact on their Senior Women’s, Youth Girls and junior participation within Goulburn Murray competitions. These meetings were held to ensure the club had a clear and accurate understanding of the associated risks and consequences of non-affiliation.

It is confirmed that Barooga Football Netball Club will not be eligible to access AFL supported programs including participation in any affiliated competitions for men and women, facility funding, junior competition and talent pathway programs, representative opportunities such as the V/Line Cup and Talent Leagues, the National Protection Program, Child Protection Cover, and the protections offered under national rules, regulations and transfer policies.

AFL Victoria and AFL Goulburn Murray remain committed to supporting continued growth in women’s and junior football across the Cobram Barooga area and have been in discussions with representatives of the Women and Girls teams in the area to have an ongoing presence in Goulburn Murray competitions and the development of pathways aligned to the Cobram Football Netball Club.

We reaffirm our strong commitment to football and netball in the region and will continue to work with local clubs, volunteers and community partners to protect participation opportunities.

Signed off by AFL Victoria, AFL Goulburn Murray & Murray Football League