Cobras welcome back premiership player, add running power

BACCHUS Marsh has continued to bolster its playing list leading into the BFNL pre-season, announcing the return of a favourite son alongside an exciting new signing from the Western FNL.

In a happy homecoming, Hamish Coulton will line up for the Cobras for the first time since 2019.

A member of the club’s last premiership team in 2016, the former standout junior and Victorian Country representative has spent the past five years living in Perth and London, but has committed to his home club in 2026.

While in London this year, Coulton played five games and kicked eight goals for Wimbledon Hawks in the AFL London competition, highlighted by a season-high three goals in a mid-July clash against Wandsworth Demons.

In 2024, he played 12 games for North Beach in the strong Perth Football League.

In a statement on the club’s social media accounts, the Cobras said they were very excited to announce the return of one of Bacchus Marsh’s favourite sons.

“Hammer has spent the last five years living in Perth and London and is returning this year to pull on the red, yellow and black once again,” the statement said.

“During his time in Perth he played for North Beach Tigers in the premier division and represented the Perth Football League in their interleague side.

“Hamish was a decorated Bacchus Marsh junior and also represented the Western Jets and Vic Country in talent pathway programs.

“In 2016, he solidified himself in Bacchus Marsh history being a member of the 2016 premiership side along with current players Tyson Shea and Simon Lafranchi, whilst also winning the BFNL Rookie of the Year in the same season.

“Welcome home, Hamish!”

Coulton’s return adds to the exciting vibes around Maddingley Park following a great comeback season by the Cobras, who jumped from 10th with a 4-12 record in 2024, to fifth place (8-10) this year.

The Cobras qualified for finals for the first time since 2018.

In a further swelling of the talent pool, the Cobras have welcomed versatile former Hoppers Crossing player Zach Vesty.

His signing was also announced via the club’s social media accounts.

“Zach joins us from Hoppers Crossing in the Western FNL, where he has played 50 senior games – experience which will prove vital to the continued progression of our young list.

“A dynamic runner who stands at 188cm, Zach has the versatility to play many roles, from rebound defender, wing or lead up forward.

“We welcome Zach and his Family!”

Shoring up the bulk of its existing list, Bacchus Marsh is building strongly for a further rise up the ladder, adding a thrilling mix of experience, youthful enthusiasm, goal-kicking power and speed.

The signings of Coulton and Vesty followed those of the previously announced Joel Freeman and Hugh Canning.

A former two-year player with NAB League (now Coates Talent League) club Western Jets, key forward Freeman returns to Maddingley Park following stints at rival club North Ballarat and Western league club Newport.

The hard-running Canning, a former Ovens and Murray league under-18 representative, is coming off a solid season at Corowa-Rutherglen.