14 August 2025

MEDIA RELEASE

Central Rivers Board Moves Forward with Club Transfers for 2026
*For Immediate Release*

The Central Rivers Board have today advised AFL Central Victoria of its intention to progress 
with the proposed transfers of Hay, Moulamein, Murrabit, and Wandella into the Central Murray 
Football Netball League (CMFNL) from the 2026 season, in line with the AFL Victoria State 
Transfer Regulations.

This decision, passed at last night’s Board meeting, has been communicated with the next 
steps now lying with AFL Victoria and the Region Council for consideration and approval.

Supporting Strong and Sustainable Clubs
Should the transfers be approved, the Board will develop minimum criteria for all clubs, both 
existing and transferring, to ensure they are positioned to compete strongly and sustainably.
A reporting process will also be implemented, with clubs required to provide retention and 
recruitment data to demonstrate readiness for the 2026 season. The Board will continue to 
work closely with clubs to provide guidance and support throughout this process.

Planning for Season 2026
In conjunction with the Board and the Leagues’ Manager, clubs will be consulted on the 
operational structure for 2026, helping shape the future. A review will be conducted mid-2026 
to assess whether any adjustments are required.

League Branding
Following consultation with clubs, the Board has confirmed that the Central Murray Football 
Netball League name and branding will be retained at this stage. 
Commitment to Collaboration
“We thank all clubs and stakeholders for their patience and cooperation throughout this 
journey so far,” the Board said in a statement. “We look forward to working together to ensure 
the long-term success and sustainability of our competition.”

*Ends*

Contact: Jessie Chester
E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.,au

Monday 04 August
MEDIA RELEASE

AFL Central Victoria Confirms Club Transfer of Ultima FNC to Central Murray FNL
*For immediate distribution*

In accordance with the AFL Victoria State Transfer Regulations, AFL Central Victoria has
approved the transfer of the Ultima Football Netball Club, currently affiliated with the Golden
Rivers Football Netball League, to the Central Murray Football Netball League commencing
season 2026 and beyond.

The decision reflects a collaborative process involving the Ultima FNC, along with all clubs
across both leagues, the Central Rivers League Board, and AFL Central Victoria.

The transfer has been approved in line with section 4.3 of the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate
Regulations, following the completion of all required steps under the State Transfer
Regulations.

AFL Central Victoria and the Central Rivers League Board acknowledges the constructive
engagement of all stakeholders throughout the process and thanks those involved for their
ongoing commitment to the sustainability and success of community football and netball.

We extend our best wishes to the Ultima FNC and the Central Murray FNL for a successful
transition and future seasons ahead.

*Ends*

Friday 25 July 2025 

MEDIA RELEASE 
Central Rivers Confirmation of Finals Venues for 2025 
*For immediate distribution* 

The Central Rivers Football & Netball Leagues are pleased to announce the confirmed venues for the 2025 
Finals Series for both Football and Netball within The Central Murray Football Netball League (CMFNL) and 
the Golden Rivers Football Netball League (GRFNL). 

Golden Rivers FNL Finals Venues: 
• Second Semi Final: Saturday, 23 August, at Hay Park 
• First Semi Final: Sunday, 24 August, at Moulamein Recreation Reserve 
• Preliminary Final: Saturday, 30 August, at Wandella Recreation Reserve  
• Grand Final: Saturday, 6 September, Macorna Recreation Reserve 

Central Murray FNL Finals Venues: 
• Qualifying Final: Saturday, 30 August, at Woorinen Recreation Reserve 
• Elimination Final: Sunday, 31 August, at Swan Hill Recreation Reserve 
• Second Semi Final: Saturday, 6 September, at Barham Recreation Reserve 
• First Semi Final: Sunday, 7 September, at Tooleybuc Recreation Reserve 
• Preliminary Final: Saturday, 13 September, at Lalbert Recreation Reserve 
• Grand Final: Saturday, 20 September, at Swan Hill Recreation Reserve (Tyntynder Hosting) 

The process for selecting these venues was carried out in accordance with our finals rotation policy, 
available on our website. These policies allow clubs to express their interest in hosting finals, taking into 
account several factors including but not limited to, previous finals hosted, the location of other finals on the 
same weekend, and the rotation position for the following year. The Board carefully reviews all preferences to 
ensure a fair and equitable distribution of finals hosting opportunities. 

The Central Rivers Board are committed to providing our clubs with the opportunity to showcase their 
facilities and the dedication of their volunteers. Hosting finals is an important aspect of our leagues, 
promoting community engagement and providing an exciting atmosphere for all participants and supporters. 
We extend our gratitude to all the clubs that have committed to hosting finals. Your efforts are crucial to the 
success of our finals’ series and the continued growth of Football and Netball in our region. 

For more information on the finals schedule and venues, please keep an eye on our socials. 

*Ends* 

MEDIA RELEASE
Central Rivers Board Confirms Key Governance and Competition Updates
*For immediate distribution*

The Central Rivers Board has today confirmed several key updates as part of its commitment to building a stronger 
and more sustainable future for football and netball in the region.

Effective immediately, By-Law 7.2: Application for Club Transfer between CMFNL & GRFNL has been removed. 
This change aligns with the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations, which override local by-laws and provide 
a clear, state-wide framework for club transfers. The former 75% club vote requirement is no longer valid under 
these regulations, and its removal eliminates unnecessary delays to 2026 planning.

Importantly, clubs will continue to be consulted on matters of competition structure and integrity. The 
removal of this by-law is not a removal of club voice, but a step toward greater consistency and fairness.

The Board has also endorsed Ultima Football Netball Club’s application to transfer to the Central Murray FNL from 
2026, in line with the club’s strategic direction and commitment to fielding football and netball teams across all 
Central Murray FNL grades. This endorsement will now proceed through the AFL Central Victoria Region Council 
process.

Looking ahead, the Board remains committed to delivering a minimum four-club Golden Rivers competition in 
2026, subject to club participation. However, it is important to note that there is currently no appetite from clubs 
for a five-club competition. A separate communication has been issued to GRFNL clubs requesting a time to meet 
and discuss their intentions for 2026, with plans to be advised no later than the 31st of July. Support is also being 
offered to Golden Rivers FNL clubs considering a move to Central Murray FNL.

Further strategic initiatives include:

• A full review of the Constitution and By-Laws in 2026.
• A mid-season competition structure review in 2026 to guide planning for 2027.
• Continued work on brand identity under the Central Rivers name, with club consultation to come.
These decisions represent proactive planning and alignment with best-practice governance and community sport 
principles. The Central Rivers Board remains focused on supporting strong, vibrant clubs and competitions across 
the region.

* Ends *

Please Contact: Jessie Chester (Leagues’ Manager)
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.