League Statement: The Bendigo Football Netball League (BFNL) is aware that Gisborne FNC are considering their playing future with our League.

Should Gisborne submit an official notice of their intention to seek a transfer, the BFNL Board will review the notice in accordance with AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations and will engage relevant stakeholders—including the Ballarat FNL, Gisborne FNC, other BFNL Clubs, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria to ensure that any decision reflects the best interests of our League and the region’s competitive framework.

BFNL Chair, Carol McKinstry said “The BFNL Board recognise that Gisborne’s club vision and community connections are evolving but given the Club’s 20+ year relationship with the BFNL, we anticipate that Gisborne FNC will remain in the BFNL for 2026.”

“Should Gisborne FNC submit their intent to transfer, the BFNL Board will evaluate the transfer request thoroughly, with consideration for our League and our broader football netball ecosystem,” McKinstry added.

The BFNL will follow the process outlined in section 4.3 of the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations.