Local football and netball deciders return to Kardinia Park

THE Geelong Football Netball League’s (GFNL) Grand Final Day proceedings will return to the Kardinia Park precinct in 2024, following confirmation of a deal between AFL Barwon, park host body Kardinia Park Stadium Trust, and the Geelong Football Club.

In a joint announcement this morning (Wednesday, February 28), AFL Barwon stated this year’s Grand Final, already scheduled for September 27, involved “significant” discussions between the three parties leading to Kardinia Park being named the location of this year’s deciders.

AFL Barwon regional general manager Edward Wilson said AFL Barwon shared incredibly strong partnerships with both the Geelong Football Club as well as Kardinia Park Stadium Trust, which led to a beneficial outcome to local sport.

“This announcement secures a future that promotes and elevates our region, to the platform it deserves.

“We’re grateful for the continued support of both Geelong Football Club and The Trust, and their community-focused mindsets to support the growth of both Football & Netball within the Barwon region.

“This tri-parity partnership is uniquely Barwon, and we look forward to collectively working together in years to come.”

The most recent deciders held at Kardinia Park were in 2019, where St Mary’s defeated Colac in football and Newtown & Chilwell defeated St Albans to claim its seventh straight netball A Grade Grand Final.

“The Trust is thrilled to again host the local 2024 Geelong Football Netball League Grand Final at GMHBA Stadium,” Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive officer Gerard Griffin said.

“With the collaboration of our three organisations, we can have this aspect of community sport, both football and netball back into the precinct where they rightfully belong.”

Geelong Football Club chief strategy and growth officer and general counsel Marcus King was also present for the announcement.

“We’re pleased to support AFL Barwon in having the biggest day on the GFNL calendar return to Kardinia Park and to see community football Grand Finals played on the hallowed turf of GMHBA Stadium again,” Mr King said.

“We see GMHBA Stadium, and the Kardinia Park precinct, as the home of sporting and special events for the region, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and AFL Barwon to ensure a highly successful day for our community and all involved.”