Lorne and Apollo Bay prepare for 2025 opener

TWO clubs in the Great Ocean Road region will start their 2025 Colac District Football Netball League seasons next weekend.

Reigning football premiers Lorne will take on Birregurra on April 5, while Apollo Bay face the formidable task of 2024 finalist Simpson.

Lorne FNC president Carly Enticott said the club was optimistic about another huge season.

“There’s certainly a buzz.

“The interest in the senior football has been incredible, training numbers have been fantastic, and there’s a big relief there that they have a strong list.

“On the netball side of things, we’ve recruited really strongly. We are going to have a lot more depth.”

After only recording a single A Grade victory in 2024, Lorne welcome Sade Stafford from St Albans and Rikki Van Gemert from Lara GFL.

“We are rapt to have them on board,” Enticott said.

“I think we will surprise a lot of teams with some of the talent that is there.”

Apollo Bay clinched three football wins in 2024 and two A grade wins on the netball court.

The senior football will be led by Tyson Holt and Dan Delaney, while Sophie Fletcher will head up the A Grade side.

Both the netball and football side were defeated by 46 points in their last matchup with Simpson.

For the full fixture and team announcements, head to the Play HQ website.