There has been a development in the immediate fate of the mooted “Murray District League” ― a second competition under the Murray Football Netball League banner.
On behalf of the AFL Goulburn Murray Commission, Quentin Thomson released a statement on Friday afternoon.
“AFLGM acknowledges that it has received notification from the Murray League that it will not pursue its application to form a new district competition under its management for 2024,” he said.
“We appreciate the high commitment and enthusiasm from the Murray League and the clubs directly concerned during the process and acknowledge the disappointment of the league and clubs.
“As the process unfolded, an updated proposal was put to the Commission. Whilst the Commission remains open to a new district league competition, the new proposal had a more significant impact on the region than initially proposed and required further consideration.
“Consultation was undertaken with or between the Murray Football League, Kyabram District League, the clubs involved, the AFLGM Commission, and AFL Vic representatives.
“AFL Goulburn Murray will continue to work with the respective leagues and clubs to support better regional outcomes.”
The statement comes on the back of news from Broadford on Thursday that its attempt to join the KDL had been blocked by a “majority” of member clubs at a vote on Wednesday night.
“While we’re disappointed with the outcome of the KDFNL vote, the process isn’t over for us,” Broadford president Bonnie Welch said.
“We’ll have further discussions with the relevant personnel, including AFL Victoria, to seek a better outcome for our club.
“We believe we have a strong argument to be in a league in the AFL Goulburn Murray region, which aligns with our junior club, who plays in the Seymour District Junior Football Netball League. It just makes sense that is where our future is.
“We’re in a situation where KDNFL clubs are affected by the uncertainty of the overall league structure within the Goulburn Valley, with many clubs unsatisfied with the current league set-up.
“That no doubt has had an impact on where we sit in the big picture. Clubs have been put in a difficult position to make a decision on our application at this uncertain time.
“We thank everyone who had taken the time to assist us and hear us out over the past three months. We will continue to seek to do what is best for our club and for the Broadford community.”