Tardrew heads west on ‘unfinished business’

STAR Sandhurst on-baller Lachlan Tardrew says he is excited by the opportunity of another crack at state league football at WAFL club Peel Thunder.

The Thunder confirmed one of Central Victoria’s worst kept footy secrets, announcing last week they had signed the prolific Dragons co-coach for 2026.

Tardrew – joint winner of the Michelsen Medal in 2024 as the Bendigo league’s best and fairest and runner-up in 2025 – heads west after two brilliant seasons back at his home club, highlighted by a premiership in 2024 and grand final appearance in 2025.

Success at Sandhurst followed a 100-game career with Collingwood’s VFL team, where he held their captaincy role, won a best and fairest and appeared in multiple finals.

Tardrew, who heads west with the full blessing of Sandhurst, is inspired by the chance at ‘unfinished business’ at state league level.

“I’m excited by the opportunity to play at a strong club in a great league, the chance to learn from an experienced group of coaches and to experience the football culture in Western Australia,” he said.

“I’ll be looking to bring leadership and competitiveness to Peel Thunder, hoping to connect and form relationships with the players, coaches and staff.”

The Dragons have moved quickly to fill the breach left by Tardrew as co-coach of the Dragons alongside Bryce Curnow, having appointed star forward and former AFL player Fergus Greene to the role.

Highly credentialed and widely respected among his teammate and BFNL peers, Tardrew racked up multiple awards and honours during his two seasons back in maroon and blue.

Alongside his Michelsen Medal triumph, he won back-to-back club best and fairest awards while serving as joint captain of the BFNL interleague team against the VAFA this season, winning the Derrick Filo Medal as best afield.

Thunder general manager of football operations Sam Skinner hailed Tardrew’s experience, leadership and professionalism, and equally, the off-field qualities he brought to the club.

“This is a crucial signing for the Peel Thunder Football Club, as we look to bolster our young and developing squad with additional leadership and experience,” he said on the club’s website.

“What clearly stood out when speaking with Lachie was a burning desire to add to his 100-game state league career.

“He has unfinished business and is genuinely excited to test himself against the best midfielders in the WAFL competition in Peel colours.

“On-field, Tards is a proven competitor, leads by actions and is known for his ball-winning ability along with clean ball use under pressure.

“Lachie’s simply a quality person and will help lead Peel Thunder in aiming to return back into finals for 2026, along with developing our quality group of young local players in our squad.”

In a post on its Instagram account, Sandhurst Football Netball Club paid tribute to Tardew’s contribution and wished him all the best in the next phase of his stellar career.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Lachlan Tardrew for his incredible contribution to the Sandhurst Football Netball Club over the past few years,” the statement read.

“As a coach, captain and player, Lachie has set the standard for professionalism and leadership. Both on and off the field, helping elevate our club to new heights.

“During his last two years at the Dragons, Tardy has achieved an extraordinary list of accolades.

“Tardy now embarks on an exciting new chapter in Western Australia, where he will continue his football journey with Peel Thunder (WAFL) alongside his partner, Milly (Wicks).

“We wish Lachie and Milly all the very best for this next adventure and hope to see Tardy back in the Dragons colours soon!”