SENIOR FOOTBALL

COMPETITION
REVIEW

December 2017

KEY FINDINGS REPORT

Version: Final Date: December 2017

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 1

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................................................... 3

2. RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................................... 6
2.1 BALLARAT FNL............................................................................................................... 6
2.2 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS FL ................................................................................................ 7
2.3 MARYBOROUGH CASTLEMAINE DISTRICT FNL ................................................................ 9
2.4 RIDDELL DISTRICT FNL ................................................................................................. 10
2.5 UMPIRING................................................................................................................... 11
2.6 NETBALL ..................................................................................................................... 12
2.7 OTHER ........................................................................................................................ 13

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 2

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In July 2016 AFL Goldfields announced that it would be conducting a Senior Competition
Review.

This review was commissioned by the AFL Goldfields Commission to examine the
sustainability and viability of the current football competitions and design and recommend
the optimal structure of senior football competitions in the AFL Goldfields Region for season
2018 and beyond.

The principles of the AFL Goldfields Senior Competition Review were as follows:

To provide competition structures that will promote the sustainability of clubs

To provide competition structures that will promote participation growth
To provide competition structures that allow for new club entry and provide optimum
competitive balance for existing clubs
To consider varying degrees of population growth or decline
To consider factors such as geography, junior pathways and external environmental
influences
The structure of the various Umpiring, netball competitions will be considered as
part of the scope of this project.
AFL Goldfields will liaise with Netball Victoria prior to the release of any Terms of
Reference, and further liaise with Netball Victoria regularly of progress and potential
recommendations.

AFL Goldfields wish to advise that it has concluded its Senior Competition Review, and
presents the following report for the information of all stakeholders.

AFL Goldfields wish to thank all affiliated Leagues, Clubs, and Umpiring Associations for their
enthusiastic participation across the Review, and further record our appreciation to all
Leagues, Clubs, and Umpiring Associations for participating in Surveys, attending Interviews
and who also submitted proposals for AFL Goldfields to consider.

There was a general acceptance across the region that it will be extremely difficult for all
current AFL Goldfields Clubs to have a viable and sustainable future should our various
competition structures remain unchanged. However, it did prove difficult to identify an
alternative competition structure option that is widely supported by the majority of affiliated
Leagues and Clubs. Following on from this view, the Commission at this point could not be
satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that creating two leagues / divisions each of less than 10
clubs would ensure the sustainability of vulnerable clubs such as Smythesdale FNC, Carngham
Linton FNC, Skipton FNC & Rokewood Corindhap FNC but conversely not effect the
sustainability and current fabric and standing of a number of clubs that were being forced to
move into a new league / division.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 3

Against this background it is the view of AFL Goldfields that there should not be any major
structural change to any affiliated competition for the 2019 season. However, a watching
brief is to be maintained by AFL Goldfields and, if it becomes apparent in the short to
medium term that there are sufficient teams to split the Central Highlands FL into 2
Divisions and that such a division was believed to be beneficial to the Clubs concerned, that
AFL Goldfields further examine a possible splitting of the Central Highlands FL into 2
Divisions in the future.

More than 1,000 man hours have been dedicated to the AFL Goldfields Senior Football
Review by the members of the Senior Competition Review Working Party, and multiple
communication and feed-back methods were employed to ensure that all stakeholders
were engaged with and had every opportunity for consultation.

A survey of all Football-Netball Clubs, Leagues, Associations and interested bodies within
AFL Goldfields Region was initially conducted. These responses were followed by
interviews with all 55 Clubs, all four Leagues and both Umpiring Associations. Two-way
communication was also undertaken with Netball Victoria.

It quickly became apparent that, by virtue of it being an 18-team competition, the Central
Highlands Football League structure was not conducive to the sustainability of all its
member Clubs. As a result of lengthy considerations by the Review Committee, preliminary
(draft) recommendations were established and a meeting of all CHFL Clubs was called, and
held, at Saxon House.

Individual League and Club responses were then provided, together with a meeting of
individual Clubs at their request and, finally, with the CHFL Board. As a result of that
feedback, the (draft) recommendations have altered.

There were numerous conversations and correspondence with League Presidents and
individual Clubs throughout the process.

There were clubs in each of the four leagues who were and/or are in a position where their
future sustainability is in the balance and the Review Working Party addressed their issues
and attempted to find answers to their issues. No Club, League, Association or issue was
ignored but, unfortunately, answers to every problem were not always available, or were
impossible to implement for a variety of genuine reasons.

Some Clubs may be disappointed by the outcomes of the Review, but a watching brief will
be maintained into the short medium term, allowing AFL Goldfields to monitor the
expected emergence of new Clubs or, should it be sought by Clubs, even the possibility of
mergers between existing Clubs, and act appropriately on potential league re-structures.
This would be done solely to address the sustainability and viability of Football-Netball Clubs
in the Region.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 4

The major issues inhibiting on League restructures, at this time, are;

i) the geographical location of Clubs,

ii) the probable levels of competitiveness of those Clubs against localised
oppositions.

It would be a simple thing to create two competitions of twelve teams and three of ten
teams but geography and competitiveness simply excluded it as a realistic possibility.
AFL Goldfields remain committed to providing whatever assistance, advice and support it can
to assist all member Clubs in their endeavours to have a sustainable future.

Whilst AFL Goldfields has not recommended any major structural change to any affiliated
competition for the 2018 seasons, it should be noted that over 40 recommendations have
been proposed for implementation that we are confident will assist in the sustainability of
Clubs and the promotion and growth of football and netball across the region moving
forward.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 5

2. RECOMMENDATIONS
2.1 BALLARAT FNL

1. That the Sebastopol FNC be granted its (revised) request to remain in the Ballarat Football-
Netball League, conditional upon it meeting on and off field achievement targets set by AFL
Goldfields for the 2018 season. Should the Sebastopol FNC not meet those targets, a
transfer to an alternate District League will be considered for the 2019 season.

2. In line with the above, the Ballarat FNL will remain an 11 team competition at Senior
level for the 2018 season.

3. That AFL Goldfields and the Ballarat FNL further explore the possible inclusion of the
Buninyong FNC into the Ballarat FNL in the medium term.

4. That AFL Goldfields and the Ballarat FNL further explore the possible inclusion of the
Rupertswood FNC into the Ballarat FNL in the medium term. Should the
Rupertswood FNC remain strong in their desire to remain in the RDFNL, AFL
Goldfields and the Ballarat FNL will identify alternate options for a 12 th Ballarat FNL
Club who would be located in the eastern geographic area of the Ballarat FNL.

5. That AFL Goldfields lobby AFL Victoria for a reduction in the Player Points Allowance
and Player Salary Cap for the Western Region FL and Essendon District FL
competitions below their premier grades.

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2.2 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS FL

1. That the Central Highlands FL to remain a single division 18 team competition for the
2018 season.

However, a watching brief is to be maintained by AFL Goldfields and, if it becomes

apparent in the short to medium term that there are sufficient teams to do so, and
that such a division was believed to be beneficial to the Clubs concerned, that AFL
Goldfields further examine a possible splitting of the Central Highlands FL into 2
Divisions in the future.

2. That the Skipton FNC and the Carngham-Linton FNCs be provided with on & off field
criteria (as is the case of the Sebastopol FNC within the BFNL) to be met within two
seasons (by the end of the 2019 season).

Should these targets not be achieved, the Club or Clubs concerned will be advised
that their continuation within the CHFL is believed to not only be jeopardising their
own sustainability but the sustainability of some of their opposition Clubs and they
must, therefore, seek a transfer to a competition where they can be more
competitive and sustainable or consider merger options.

3. That AFL Goldfields will provide whatever assistance, advice and support it can, to
the Skipton FNC and the Carngham-Linton FNC to aid them in reaching the above
mentioned targets. Further, that AFL Goldfields will seek the co-operation and
provision of similar levels of assistance from the Central Highlands Football League,
to the Skipton and Carngham-Linton FNCs.

4. That AFL Goldfields will provide whatever assistance, advice and support it can, to
any other Central Highlands FL Club who requests assistance to ensure their ongoing
sustainability and to improve their competitiveness.

5. That the Central Highlands FL continue to support the Smythesdale FNC in 2018, and
if required allow the Club to affiliate for the 2018 season without a Senior side only,
provided they continue to field all other football and netball sides.

6. The above concession would be applied for the 2018 season only, and the
Smythesdale FNC would be required to field a full complement of sides beyond the
2018 season.

7. Should the Smythesdale FNC be unable to meet their affiliation criteria for the 2018
or 2019 season that AFL Goldfields would work with the Smythesdale FNC to
investigate alternate competition options, possible merger alternatives, and any
other options available to maintain a senior football presence in the Smythesdale
township.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 7

8. That the Clunes FNC be granted their request to leave the CHFL, and will join the
MCDFNL for the 2019 season.

9. The Review Working Party recommends that AFL Goldfields work with the Central
Highlands FL and Central Highlands Netball League with the aim of merging the two
entities (in line with the majority of leagues in Victoria) to form the Central Highlands
FNL. The Review Working Party believes that AFL Goldfields should work closely with
the netball and football leagues to develop a model that will see the two entities
come together in a fair and equitable process.

10. That AFL Goldfields will work with the Central Highlands FL to investigate weighted
fixture options for implementation for the 2019 season to promote competition
equalization and club sustainability.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 8

2.3 MARYBOROUGH CASTLEMAINE DISTRICT FNL

1. That the Maryborough Castlemaine District FNL to remain a single division 14 team
competition for the 2018 season.

2. That the Carisbrook FNC be granted their request to remain within the MCDFNL.
Should the Carisbrook FNC wish to further consider a transfer to the CHFL (or any
other competition) into the future, AFL Goldfields will facilitate a feasibility study for
any possible transfer at the appropriate time.

3. That the Lexton FNC be granted their request to remain in the MCDFNL.

4. That the Trentham FNC be granted their request to remain within the MCDFNL until
and unless a new competition is formed in their geographical area, and in which they
are likely to be competitive.

5. That the MCDFNL accept the Clunes FNC into the MCDFNL competition for the 2019
season.

6. The Review has noted that there is general acceptance by all MCDFNL Clubs that
there are too many clubs within the immediate vicinity of Maryborough noting
there are 7 Clubs within 30kms of Maryborough. It is accepted that the demise or
merger of clubs is considered inevitable. AFL Goldfields and the MCDFNL work
closely with all Clubs into the future to present and facilitate Merger packages as
and when required.

7. That AFL Goldfields will provide whatever assistance, advice and support it can, to
assist the Dunolly FNC and any other MCDFNL Club who requests assistance to
ensure their ongoing sustainability and to improve their competitiveness.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 9

2.4 RIDDELL DISTRICT FNL

1. That the Riddell District FNL to remain a single division 12 team competition for the
2018 to 2020 seasons.

2. The Review noted that there is a strong desire amongst the smaller country or
regional clubs for a split into a 2 Division RDFNL competition, and against that
background that AFL Goldfields conduct a further Review of the Riddell District FNL
Senior competition structure in 2020.

3. The Review noted that through the natural growth of current Junior Clubs such as
Eynesbury Junior FNC and the Gisborne Giants FNC that in time these clubs will
evolve into senior clubs. It is considered critical that these clubs have an entry level
competition to join, which also supports that in the medium longer term that AFL
Goldfields and the RDFNL continue to consider future options for moving to a 2
Division competition.

4. The Review also noted that in the medium longer term that Sunbury FNC, Gisborne
FNC, Melton South FNC and Melton FNC may again consider rejoining a possible
reformed Division 1 of the Riddell District FNL.

5. That AFL Goldfields will provide whatever assistance, advice and support it can, to
assist the Lancefield FNC, Broadford FNC and any other RDFNL Club who requests
assistance to ensure their ongoing sustainability and to improve their
competitiveness.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 10

 2.5 UMPIRING

This section contains recommendations for both the Ballarat Football Umpires Association
and the Riddell Umpires.

1. That AFL Goldfields and the MCDFNL work closely with the BFUA to implement
recruiting programs in an effort to attract more Umpires across the MCDFNL region.

2. That AFL Goldfields FDMs become more involved in Umpiring recruitment programs,
working under the guidance and instruction from the BFUA & Riddell Umpires.

3. That AFL Goldfields support the BFUA in lobbying the City of Ballarat for the
establishment of a dedicated BFUA Headquarters.

4. That AFL Goldfields support the BFUA & Riddell Umpires in lobbying all LGAs for
improved Umpire Change Facilities, with an emphasis on Female Change Facilities.

5. That AFL Goldfields work in partnership with the BFUA and Riddell Umpires to, at a
time that suits both the BFUA and Riddell Umpires, expand the BFUA Operations
Managers role to oversee the administration of both the BFUA and Riddell Umpires.

6. That AFL Goldfields implement a program that will require to require all Club
Volunteers Umpires to complete an online accreditation and registration program
commencing in the 2018 season. The purpose of this will be to help improve the
standard of volunteer Umpires.

7. That from the commencement of the 2018 season the BFUA & Riddell Umpires shall
invoice AFL Goldfields for all Umpire appointments, with AFL Goldfields then to
invoice Clubs (administered by the RAC) direct.

8. That the Riddell Umpires affiliate with AFL Goldfields.

9. That the BFUA and Riddell Umpires implement a Regional Director of Umpiring who
would be charged with the following:

a. Supervising Field, Boundary & Goal Umpire Coaching programs

b. Overseeing Satellite training base (where applicable)
c. Succession planning
d. Strong working relationship with the BFUA/RU Operations Manager
e. Establishment of school based Umpiring Academy
f. Managing AFL Umpire Mentor program
g. Managing Vline Umpire Academy Program

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2.6 NETBALL

1. That the Ballarat FNL consider an increase in the number of senior competitions
offered by the Ballarat FNL due to an excess of players at a large number of clubs.

2. That the Central Highlands NL consider an increase in the number of Junior

competitions offered by the Central Highlands NL due to an excess of players at a
large number of clubs.

3. That AFL Goldfields Work with their affiliated Netball Associations & Leagues to
establish an AFL Goldfields Netball Umpires Association, who will have responsibility
for accrediting and appointing Umpires to Senior Fixtures within requested leagues.

4. That AFL Goldfields Work with their affiliated Netball Associations & Leagues and
local Councils to assist those Clubs who have a single Netball Court to establish a 2nd
Netball Court at their venue.

5. That AFL Goldfields works with their affiliated Netball Associations & Leagues to
establish a Netball Player Points System for A Grade / Senior Netball competitions to
address the rising costs of Player Payments in Netball, and which would be aimed at
restricting the number of recruits and to encourage local talent development.

6. That AFL Goldfields works with their affiliated Netball Associations & Leagues to
monitor the movement of players between leagues and where required, to
implement By Laws to address any issues that may arise.

7. That AFL Goldfields work with the Central Highlands FL & Central Highlands Netball
League with the aim of merging the two entities (in line with the majority of leagues
in Victoria) to form the Central Highlands FNL, and in doing to develop a model that
will see the two entities come together in a fair and equitable process.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 12

 2.7 OTHER

1. That AFL Goldfields work closely with Leagues in the Ballarat region to identify the most
appropriate entry league at senior level when the new Junior Club (Ballarat Storm Junior
FNC) is ready to enter a senior competition. This is expected to be a medium longer
term requirement.

2. That AFL Goldfields work closely with City of Ballarat and the Ballarat Storm Junior FNC to
establish new facilities in the Lucas area.

3. That AFL Goldfields investigate and consider any measures that may be aimed at reducing
the workloads of volunteers as a priority. Some examples of opportunities discussed
include:

a. Replacing manual (hardcopy) Match Day paperwork with online electronic May
Day paperwork.

b. Further consideration be given to TIDY HQ a trial on line Google Docs

equivalent that can provide guidance and assistance for Club management and
administration.

c. Provision of Best Practice information to be provided on a regular basis to all

Clubs. Providing advice and assistance to Clubs by league, and across region.

d. That AFL Goldfields hold a think tank with Club Volunteers to seek their
feedback on any initiatives that can reduce their commitments without
compromising competition integrity.

e. That AFL Goldfields conduct an internal review of work practices to see where
current practices can be amended to reduce the workload on Club volunteers.

f. That AFL Goldfields commit to hosting 2018 Club Seminar (and which is confirmed
and advertised prior to Xmas to allow Clubs to factor into planning for 2018
season. This one day seminar is designed to remove the need to hold several
seminars which require volunteer attendance throughout the season.

This seminar will include training & information sessions for:

Induction Training sessions for Club Executive, Junior Co Ordinators &
Football Manager
Club Presidents and Secretaries Administration Training
Senior Coaches Senior, Reserve and 3rd 18 grade
Junior Coaches all Junior grades (including Junior Coaching Co
Ordinator)
Tribunal Advocate/s
Trainers (and / or any other medical staff)

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 13

 Football Manager
Netball President / Delegate / Co Ordinator
Sponsorship Manager / Director / Marketing
Club Volunteer Umpire
Website (Footyweb / Sports TG) Co Ordinator

4. That AFL Goldfields investigate and identify possible revenue generating opportunities
from non-traditional income streams, and from which, revenue raised, can be used to
support Clubs, Leagues and take the pressure of Club Volunteers from a fundraising
perspective.

5. That, at this time, salary cap arrangements within the AFL Goldfields Region remain at
their present levels, with no more than incremental annual increases and then only if
believed necessary.

6. That AFL Goldfields liaise with the 14 Clubs who have expressed interest in affiliating a
female football side in the future with the intention of including them in an AFL
Goldfields female football competition as soon as possible.

7. That AFL Goldfields continue to implement the AFL Victoria Community Club
Sustainability Program (CCSP) and with the ongoing advice and liaison with leagues
provide the required level of assistance to Clubs to ensure their ongoing competitiveness
and sustainability.

AFL GOLDFIELDS SENIOR COMPETITION REVIEW FINAL REPORT 14