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CMFNL
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15 MAY 2026
MEDIA RELEASE
Central Murray FNL Confirms Week 1 Structure for Historic Top 8 Finals Series
*FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION*
The Central Murray Football Netball League (CMFNL) has confirmed the Week 1 hosting structure for its new Top 8 Finals Series,
which will be introduced for the first time in season 2026.
The expanded finals format will see eight clubs in each grade compete across a four-week finals campaign, creating additional
opportunities for clubs and supporters while delivering an exciting new finals structure for both football and netball
competitions.
Under the new system, Week 1 of finals will feature 2 Qualifying Finals and 2 Elimination Finals across Saturday and Sunday.
The format will operate as follows:
Week 1 – Qualifying & Elimination Finals
Saturday – August 29
• 1st vs 4th (1st qualifying)
• 2nd vs 3rd (2nd qualifying)
Sunday – August 30
• 5th vs 8th (loser eliminated) (1st elimination)
• 6th vs 7
th (loser eliminated) (2nd elimination)
Week 2 – Semi Finals
Saturday – Semi Final 1 - 5 September
• Loser of 1st Qualifying plays Winner of 1st Elimination
Sunday – Semi Final 2 - 6 September
• Loser of 2nd Qualifying plays Winner of 2nd Elimination
Week 3 – Preliminary Finals
Saturday - 12 September
• Winner of 1st Qualifying plays Winner of Semi Final 2
Sunday - 13 September
• Winner of 2nd Qualifying plays Winner of Semi Final 1
Week 4 – Grand Final - Saturday 19 September
• Winners of each Preliminary Finals play in the Grand Final.
As part of the transition to the new Top 8 system, the Central Rivers Board undertook a club consultation and survey process
throughout April & early May to determine the preferred method to host Week 1, given the challenge of conducting 4 separate
finals across 2 days.
Following the consultation period, the Central Rivers Board met on Wednesday night to review all feedback and voting
outcomes in detail.
Based on the results of the club consultation the Board has unanimously endorsed the hosting of all matches at the Alan
Garden and Swan Hill Recreation Reserves as the preferred hosting model for Week 1 of the 2026 Finals Series.
The Board believes the adopted model provides the strongest outcome for clubs, supporters and officials by allowing clubs with
teams competing across different grades and ladder positions to remain at the one venue throughout the weekend.
The structure will also support the League’s umpiring group through improved appointments, travel and logistical efficiencies.
Central Rivers Board Chair Gavin Campbell said “this will be one of the biggest weekends of football and netball the region, or
possibly Country Victoria has ever seen. 16 games of football and 28 games of netball will be played on one precinct across the
weekend of August 29 & 30. The way things are shaping up with the season thus far, it is highly likely that every one of the 16
clubs in the Central Murray, will have a team participating. Everyone should be really excited about it!”
Several clubs have already expressed interest in hosting matches under the approved model.
Over the coming weeks, clubs included in the 2026 finals hosting rotation will be invited to submit hosting preferences for the
full finals’ series. Final venue allocations and host clubs will be confirmed by the Board following their June Board Meeting.
Further information regarding finals venues and hosting allocations will be released following the June Board Meeting.
*ENDS*
Please contact Jessie Chester CMFNL Manager
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- File Download 1:
15 MAY 2026
MEDIA RELEASE
Central Murray FNL Confirms Week 1 Structure for Historic Top 8 Finals Series
*FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION*
The Central Murray Football Netball League (CMFNL) has confirmed the Week 1 hosting structure for its new Top 8 Finals Series,
which will be introduced for the first time in season 2026.
The expanded finals format will see eight clubs in each grade compete across a four-week finals campaign, creating additional
opportunities for clubs and supporters while delivering an exciting new finals structure for both football and netball
competitions.
Under the new system, Week 1 of finals will feature 2 Qualifying Finals and 2 Elimination Finals across Saturday and Sunday.
The format will operate as follows:
Week 1 – Qualifying & Elimination Finals
Saturday – August 29
• 1st vs 4th (1st qualifying)
• 2nd vs 3rd (2nd qualifying)
Sunday – August 30
• 5th vs 8th (loser eliminated) (1st elimination)
• 6th vs 7
th (loser eliminated) (2nd elimination)
Week 2 – Semi Finals
Saturday – Semi Final 1 - 5 September
• Loser of 1st Qualifying plays Winner of 1st Elimination
Sunday – Semi Final 2 - 6 September
• Loser of 2nd Qualifying plays Winner of 2nd Elimination
Week 3 – Preliminary Finals
Saturday - 12 September
• Winner of 1st Qualifying plays Winner of Semi Final 2
Sunday - 13 September
• Winner of 2nd Qualifying plays Winner of Semi Final 1
Week 4 – Grand Final - Saturday 19 September
• Winners of each Preliminary Finals play in the Grand Final.
As part of the transition to the new Top 8 system, the Central Rivers Board undertook a club consultation and survey process
throughout April & early May to determine the preferred method to host Week 1, given the challenge of conducting 4 separate
finals across 2 days.
Following the consultation period, the Central Rivers Board met on Wednesday night to review all feedback and voting
outcomes in detail.
Based on the results of the club consultation the Board has unanimously endorsed the hosting of all matches at the Alan
Garden and Swan Hill Recreation Reserves as the preferred hosting model for Week 1 of the 2026 Finals Series.
The Board believes the adopted model provides the strongest outcome for clubs, supporters and officials by allowing clubs with
teams competing across different grades and ladder positions to remain at the one venue throughout the weekend.
The structure will also support the League’s umpiring group through improved appointments, travel and logistical efficiencies.
Central Rivers Board Chair Gavin Campbell said “this will be one of the biggest weekends of football and netball the region, or
possibly Country Victoria has ever seen. 16 games of football and 28 games of netball will be played on one precinct across the
weekend of August 29 & 30. The way things are shaping up with the season thus far, it is highly likely that every one of the 16
clubs in the Central Murray, will have a team participating. Everyone should be really excited about it!”
Several clubs have already expressed interest in hosting matches under the approved model.
Over the coming weeks, clubs included in the 2026 finals hosting rotation will be invited to submit hosting preferences for the
full finals’ series. Final venue allocations and host clubs will be confirmed by the Board following their June Board Meeting.
Further information regarding finals venues and hosting allocations will be released following the June Board Meeting.
*ENDS*
Please contact Jessie Chester CMFNL Manager
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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- Article Text:
MEDIA RELEASE
Central Rivers Board Confirms Key Governance and Competition Updates
*For immediate distribution*
The Central Rivers Board has today confirmed several key updates as part of its commitment to building a stronger
and more sustainable future for football and netball in the region.
Effective immediately, By-Law 7.2: Application for Club Transfer between CMFNL & GRFNL has been removed.
This change aligns with the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations, which override local by-laws and provide
a clear, state-wide framework for club transfers. The former 75% club vote requirement is no longer valid under
these regulations, and its removal eliminates unnecessary delays to 2026 planning.
Importantly, clubs will continue to be consulted on matters of competition structure and integrity. The
removal of this by-law is not a removal of club voice, but a step toward greater consistency and fairness.
The Board has also endorsed Ultima Football Netball Club’s application to transfer to the Central Murray FNL from
2026, in line with the club’s strategic direction and commitment to fielding football and netball teams across all
Central Murray FNL grades. This endorsement will now proceed through the AFL Central Victoria Region Council
process.
Looking ahead, the Board remains committed to delivering a minimum four-club Golden Rivers competition in
2026, subject to club participation. However, it is important to note that there is currently no appetite from clubs
for a five-club competition. A separate communication has been issued to GRFNL clubs requesting a time to meet
and discuss their intentions for 2026, with plans to be advised no later than the 31st of July. Support is also being
offered to Golden Rivers FNL clubs considering a move to Central Murray FNL.
Further strategic initiatives include:
• A full review of the Constitution and By-Laws in 2026.
• A mid-season competition structure review in 2026 to guide planning for 2027.
• Continued work on brand identity under the Central Rivers name, with club consultation to come.
These decisions represent proactive planning and alignment with best-practice governance and community sport
principles. The Central Rivers Board remains focused on supporting strong, vibrant clubs and competitions across
the region.
* Ends *
Please Contact: Jessie Chester (Leagues’ Manager)
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
- File Download 1:
MEDIA RELEASE
Central Rivers Board Confirms Key Governance and Competition Updates
*For immediate distribution*
The Central Rivers Board has today confirmed several key updates as part of its commitment to building a stronger
and more sustainable future for football and netball in the region.
Effective immediately, By-Law 7.2: Application for Club Transfer between CMFNL & GRFNL has been removed.
This change aligns with the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate Regulations, which override local by-laws and provide
a clear, state-wide framework for club transfers. The former 75% club vote requirement is no longer valid under
these regulations, and its removal eliminates unnecessary delays to 2026 planning.
Importantly, clubs will continue to be consulted on matters of competition structure and integrity. The
removal of this by-law is not a removal of club voice, but a step toward greater consistency and fairness.
The Board has also endorsed Ultima Football Netball Club’s application to transfer to the Central Murray FNL from
2026, in line with the club’s strategic direction and commitment to fielding football and netball teams across all
Central Murray FNL grades. This endorsement will now proceed through the AFL Central Victoria Region Council
process.
Looking ahead, the Board remains committed to delivering a minimum four-club Golden Rivers competition in
2026, subject to club participation. However, it is important to note that there is currently no appetite from clubs
for a five-club competition. A separate communication has been issued to GRFNL clubs requesting a time to meet
and discuss their intentions for 2026, with plans to be advised no later than the 31st of July. Support is also being
offered to Golden Rivers FNL clubs considering a move to Central Murray FNL.
Further strategic initiatives include:
• A full review of the Constitution and By-Laws in 2026.
• A mid-season competition structure review in 2026 to guide planning for 2027.
• Continued work on brand identity under the Central Rivers name, with club consultation to come.
These decisions represent proactive planning and alignment with best-practice governance and community sport
principles. The Central Rivers Board remains focused on supporting strong, vibrant clubs and competitions across
the region.
* Ends *
Please Contact: Jessie Chester (Leagues’ Manager)
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Monday 04 August
MEDIA RELEASE
AFL Central Victoria Confirms Club Transfer of Ultima FNC to Central Murray FNL
*For immediate distribution*
In accordance with the AFL Victoria State Transfer Regulations, AFL Central Victoria has
approved the transfer of the Ultima Football Netball Club, currently affiliated with the Golden
Rivers Football Netball League, to the Central Murray Football Netball League commencing
season 2026 and beyond.
The decision reflects a collaborative process involving the Ultima FNC, along with all clubs
across both leagues, the Central Rivers League Board, and AFL Central Victoria.
The transfer has been approved in line with section 4.3 of the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate
Regulations, following the completion of all required steps under the State Transfer
Regulations.
AFL Central Victoria and the Central Rivers League Board acknowledges the constructive
engagement of all stakeholders throughout the process and thanks those involved for their
ongoing commitment to the sustainability and success of community football and netball.
We extend our best wishes to the Ultima FNC and the Central Murray FNL for a successful
transition and future seasons ahead.
*Ends*
- File Download 1:
- Club Notes:
MEDIA RELEASE
AFL Central Victoria Confirms Club Transfer of Ultima FNC to Central Murray FNL
*For immediate distribution*
In accordance with the AFL Victoria State Transfer Regulations, AFL Central Victoria has
approved the transfer of the Ultima Football Netball Club, currently affiliated with the Golden
Rivers Football Netball League, to the Central Murray Football Netball League commencing
season 2026 and beyond.
The decision reflects a collaborative process involving the Ultima FNC, along with all clubs
across both leagues, the Central Rivers League Board, and AFL Central Victoria.
The transfer has been approved in line with section 4.3 of the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate
Regulations, following the completion of all required steps under the State Transfer
Regulations.
AFL Central Victoria and the Central Rivers League Board acknowledges the constructive
engagement of all stakeholders throughout the process and thanks those involved for their
ongoing commitment to the sustainability and success of community football and netball.
We extend our best wishes to the Ultima FNC and the Central Murray FNL for a successful
transition and future seasons ahead.
*Ends*
Monday 04 August
MEDIA RELEASE
AFL Central Victoria Confirms Club Transfer of Ultima FNC to Central Murray FNL
*For immediate distribution*
In accordance with the AFL Victoria State Transfer Regulations, AFL Central Victoria has
approved the transfer of the Ultima Football Netball Club, currently affiliated with the Golden
Rivers Football Netball League, to the Central Murray Football Netball League commencing
season 2026 and beyond.
The decision reflects a collaborative process involving the Ultima FNC, along with all clubs
across both leagues, the Central Rivers League Board, and AFL Central Victoria.
The transfer has been approved in line with section 4.3 of the AFL Victoria Community Affiliate
Regulations, following the completion of all required steps under the State Transfer
Regulations.
AFL Central Victoria and the Central Rivers League Board acknowledges the constructive
engagement of all stakeholders throughout the process and thanks those involved for their
ongoing commitment to the sustainability and success of community football and netball.
We extend our best wishes to the Ultima FNC and the Central Murray FNL for a successful
transition and future seasons ahead.
*Ends*
