Clubs given the go-ahead to seek move to new league
Two clubs in the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition have been permitted to begin talks as they seek a move to the Ellinbank and District Football League next season.
Both the Korumburra-Bena Football Netball Club and the Kilcunda Bass Football Netball Club have been granted permission from AFL Victoria to begin negotiations with the EDFL about a potential transfer for the 2023 season.
Citing a desire to be more competitive, representatives from both clubs pointed out the major population differences between their respective areas and the likes of larger clubs like Phillip Island and Tooradin-Dalmore as a major factor in the gap between the competition's best and worst sides.
Both clubs will need to discuss the move with their fans through a Special General Meeting in which club members must resolve to move before the move can be lodged, and they cannot officially make their lodgements until August 1.
The WGFNC must then approve or deny the transfer, with both clubs being granted the chance to appeal should they be denied.
Both Korumburra-Bena and Kilcunda Bass have struggled on the field and on the court in this year's competition, and will be hoping a move can allow for greater participation rates and a better chance of success.
Additionally, Dalyston Football Netball Club were rumoured to also be seeking a transfer, though the club has strictly denied this.
EDFL Operations Manager Ken Moore stressed that the process had really only just begun.
"We got an email just over a week ago from the clubs saying that they've been given permission to talk to us," Moore said.
"We haven't sat down and spoken to them yet, and everyone will have to do their own research to make sure the move is a fit for everyone.
"They'll have to prove they can provide value to the league and win over the clubs, and I'm sure they'll be doing research on us to make sure it all works.
"It's a two-way flow."