AFL BARWON has confirmed Newcomb’s Grinter Reserve will host the 2023 Bellarine Football Netball League Grand Final for the second straight year.
The home of the Power was selected to host the decider for the first time last season, becoming the seventh venue to host the Grand Final in the BFNL’s history.
This year’s finals series will replicate the 2022 schedule, with the first two weeks of finals to be played at Portarlington Recreation Reserve.
AFL Barwon Region General Manager Edward Wilson said the two venues were deserving hosts after the success of last season’s finals series.
“We’re fortunate to continue our partnership with both Portarlington FNC and Newcomb FNC in hosting the final four weekends of the 2023 DOW Bellarine FNL season,” Wilson said.
“(Both clubs) showcased excellence in hosting the 2022 Finals and are deserving hosts, to build on last year’s success, with community engagement above expectation.”
Newcomb FNC President Matt Farrow said the club was ‘extremely proud’ to host the final two weeks of the finals.
“We have worked hard as a club to create a facility that has the ability and capacity to host such events,” Farrow said.
“All we now hope for is great weather to build on what we will be successful finals series for the competing clubs.”
Portarlington FNC President Steve Cogger said it’s a great opportunity to showcase his club’s facilities and the growth of the wider community.
“Our town is growing and with that comes the responsibility of local sporting clubs to provide facilities, equipment, coaching and mentoring to an inclusive community,” Cogger said.
“(Portarlington’s) investment in their club will be on display to demonstrate that we are a club worthwhile of any person seeking to be a part of a club that will celebrate 150 years of age in 2024.”
The full schedule for the Bellarine FNL Finals Series:
Week 1 – Portarlington Recreation Reserve
Saturday, August 19
Qualifying Finals
Sunday, August 20
Elimination Finals
Week 2 – Portarlington Recreation Reserve
Saturday, August 26
Second Semi Finals
Sunday, August 27
First Semi Finals
Week 3 – Grinter Reserve
Saturday, September 2
Preliminary Finals
Week 4 – Grinter Reserve
Saturday, September 9
Grand Finals
