AFL Barwon confirms new football division

Bellarine Football Netball League football captains at the 2026 AFL Barwon season launch. Photo: Michael Chambers.

Following a successful trial by the Queenscliff Football Netball Club, AFL Barwon will formally expand its men’s football offering in 2027.

The league has confirmed it will adopt a thirds competition, providing clubs with further participation options in the coming seasons.

Participation in the competition will not be mandated for all clubs.

Expressions of interest are currently open with the league expected to determine the competition structure once it has a better understanding of the level of interest for the competition.

AFL Barwon head of football Sarah Naylor said the 2026 trial – run by clubs – showed the potential for the league to expand its competition offering.

“We were extremely pleased with how the initiative operated throughout the 2026 season, which is a credit to Queenscliff FNC, the participating clubs and the individuals who helped make it possible,” she said.

“This year’s successes have given us a valuable foundation to explore how a thirds competition could operate more broadly, providing clubs with greater flexibility in how they structure their football programs and support their playing lists.”

Several clubs from both the Bellarine and Geelong Football Netball Leagues have already announced via their social medias they intend to field thirds teams in 2027.

Clubs are encouraged to contact AFL Barwon for further information.