LEADERSHIP A WELCOME RETURN TO LOCAL SPORT
EVEN before Covid prematurely ended the local football season, 2021 had not been one of AFL Barwon’s finest.
As challenging issues popped up throughout the interrupted season, it became painfully obvious at times that the task of overseeing some of regional Victoria’s biggest football and netball competitions was too onerous without a permanent region manager following the resignation of Will McGregor in November last year.
The organisation came under repeated scrutiny and criticism during the year for its handling of several high-profile issues including a racial vilification accusation, the decision to not play matches over the Queen’s Birthday weekend, and a memo sent to clubs warning them against speaking to the media unless authorised by AFL Barwon. Throw in the many challenging Covid-associated issues and, from the outside at least, it seemed that what the organisation was crying out for was strong leadership.
Which is something it should expect to get in spades after yesterday’s announcement that former Geelong mayor Bruce Harwood would take over the vacant region manager role.
Harwood, a current and longserving City of Greater Geelong councillor, has the leadership expertise, business nous and community connections required for such a demanding role. And, as a former Geelong Amateur player and president and a life member of the club, he certainly knows his local footy. Being father-inlaw to one of the Cats’ biggest stars probably doesn’t hurt either.
However, it remains to be seen whether and how this new role will conflict with his position on Geelong council, where he remains elected to represent Kardinia Ward.
Those with longer memories will also remember Harwood’s role in the council’s former controversial ward grants scheme, in which $59m of ratepayers’ money was allocated by councillors to projects of their choice. Harwood was a participant and acting mayor when the state government investigated the council over the scheme, of which local sporting facilities were the main beneficiary.
Yet, we are heartened by Harwood’s position on player vaccination mandates, and – while it may be early going – his willingness to speak openly on topical issues in his first interview after securing the AFL Barwon role made for a refreshing change after a year where the organisation almost lost its voice.