Summit talks about footy’s future in the north

MORE than 50 stakeholders have expressed their views on the future of footy in the northern suburbs of Geelong at an invite-only summit.

The AFL Barwon event held earlier this month featured representatives from Meli, Leisure Networks and local clubs Anakie, Bell Park, Bell Post Hill, Corio, Lara, North Geelong and North Shore.

The four themes of discussion included participation, community engagement, club development and sustainability, and facilities.

AFL Barwon regional general manager Edward Wilson thanked stakeholders for their attendance and sharing their views.

“We’re extremely grateful for the time club and community representatives took out of their lives to collaborate strategically on the future of football within the greater north of Geelong,” he said.

“The engagement will be ongoing, and has just started, but the development of a new cohesive strategy is vital, and with the support of all stakeholders, we’re confident we can see a sustainable future for football within this sub-region of Barwon.”

Mr Wilson said AFL Barwon and AFL Victoria would be leading the development of the draft strategy, which will be provided to all stakeholders for review and further input.

All clubs and stakeholders will have the opportunity to engage, contribute and assign tasks.