The Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) has announced an exciting fixture for the 2026 season, set to commence on April 11. The opening round will feature a showcase match on Good Friday, prominently featuring a grand final rematch between East Point and Bacchus Marsh. This season promises to deliver thrilling local derbies, as all Ballarat-based clubs will compete against each other.
Round one will not only spotlight the match between East Point and Bacchus Marsh but will also include a significant clash at Darley Park. Here, Darley will host the Sunbury Lions in a senior football and A-grade netball rematch of last season’s grand final. Additionally, Melton will take on Bacchus Marsh, ensuring a competitive start to the season.
Anzac Day and Themed Rounds Highlight the Calendar
Anzac Day will be a focal point in round three, with several twilight matches planned to honor the occasion. The local derby between Bacchus Marsh and Darley will take place under the lights on Anzac Day, while Sunbury and Melton will also compete in evening matches. This alignment emphasizes the league’s respect for national commemorations.
The 2026 season will see the return of Sunday matches, with four clubs integrating senior games with their junior programs. Themed rounds remain a vital aspect of the BFNL calendar. The two-week Wellness Round will provide clubs the opportunity to promote causes significant to their communities. Other notable themed rounds include the Sir Doug Nicholls Round and the Ronald McDonald House Charity Round, further showcasing the league’s commitment to celebration and community engagement.
Interleague Competition and Changes to Membership
During the first league-wide bye, interleague football and netball will take center stage. The BFNL will send teams, including under-23 football, under-18 girls, and under-18 boys, to Hampden for the annual representative competition.
Gisborne, a club that had applied to join the BFNL, will not be featured in the fixture. The application was declined by AFL Victoria, and Gisborne has since stated it will not return to the Bendigo Football Netball League. A second full-competition bye is scheduled for the middle week of school holidays.
The 2026 season of the Ballarat Football Netball League promises to offer an engaging and competitive experience for players and fans alike, with a strong emphasis on community values and local rivalries.
