Statement | The Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) is pleased to announce that AFL Victoria has formally approved the transfer of the Gisborne Football Netball Club from the Bendigo Football Netball League to the Ballarat Football Netball League, effective from the commencement of the 2027 season.

 The approval follows the completion of the transfer process in accordance with the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations.

The BFNL submitted its Intention to Accept application on 30 June 2026, with AFL Victoria confirming that the Bendigo Football Netball League did not lodge an objection to the proposed transfer.

The addition of Gisborne Football Netball Club marks an exciting milestone for the BFNL and reflects the continued strength and growth of community football and netball across the region.

BFNL General Manager Gemma Murphy said the League was pleased to have the process formally completed.

"We welcome Gisborne Football Netball Club to the Ballarat Football Netball League and look forward to them joining our competition in 2027," Murphy said.

"Throughout this process, our focus has been on following the appropriate governance framework and ensuring all requirements under the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations were met. We appreciate the cooperation of AFL Victoria and the Bendigo Football Netball League in facilitating the process."

The BFNL also acknowledges the support of its member clubs, who voted in favour of Gisborne Football Netball Club joining the League at a Special General Meeting earlier this month. Gisborne Football Netball Club will commence competition in the Ballarat Football Netball League across football and netball from the 2027 season.

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