New club helps launch Northern Rivers Aussie Rules revival

A NEW era for Aussie Rules in the Northern Rivers is underway with the formation of the Lennox Head Saints men’s team, which organisers hope will spark a revival of the sport in the region.

The Saints are one of seven teams contesting the inaugural Northern Rivers Cup, played under the AFL Queensland banner.

The five-week competition is seen as a stepping stone toward relaunching a full winter men’s competition in coming years.

Lennox Head has already introduced six new players to the sport, with Elvis Shakespeare, Connor Hirst, Kori Tasker, Alex Grant, Kalan Bond and Ryan Ginns among their best performers.

The team is coached by experienced mentor Gavin Plummer, while Brad O’Connell was key to forming the side.

“We’ve got a whole bunch of players from around the area and the future is looking bright,” O’Connell said.

“I think it shows football in the region can be strong again if given the chance.

“The quarters are 15 minutes and if some teams are short of players, they can pick up people from other teams to fill in. It’s all looking healthy at this stage though.”

Ballina, Brunswick Heads, Byron Bay, Casino, Lismore and Nimbin are also fielding teams, with one club hosting three games each Saturday.

Kingscliff and Tweed Coast are likely to join in 2026 after showing interest this year.

Lennox Head is still working to establish a permanent base and will work with Ballina Shire Council over the next few years to secure a home ground.

“We’re training at Byron Bay and don’t have a ground yet, but we’re really trying to establish ourselves,” O’Connell said.

“We’re not registered through AFL Queensland as a proper club yet. Once we get that and a few other things done it will allow us to start booking fields and things of that nature.

“We’re in a unique situation, but we’re doing beach runs and whatever we can to stay fit.”

The next round will be played at Cavanbah Centre in Byron Bay on Saturday, August 9.