After a period of recess and rebuilding, Broadford Football Netball Club is set to write a powerful new chapter in its history, returning to the field and court on a Saturday for the first time since 2023 as part of the Bendigo Football Netball League.
In 2023, Broadford FNC entered recess after competing in the Outer East FNL and while the clubs netball division has continued to compete in the Northern FNL, it has been a long road back to where we are today.
Broadford FNC has deep roots in its local community, and the journey back to competition has been defined by the resilience and determination displayed by some key individuals who all have a shared belief that Broadford FNC deserved to be back on the football field representing the Blue & White.
Now, after months of planning, recruiting and rebuilding both on and off the field, Broadford stands ready to embrace the challenge of senior competition once again—this time on a new stage – as a member of a premier country football and netball League.
Broadford FNC President Bonnie Cavanagh-Welch said the journey back to this point had been both challenging and rewarding for everyone involved at the club.
“It’s been a long road to get here. Coming out of recess has not been easy, but the commitment from our volunteers, players and wider community has been incredible,” Bonnie said.
“The passion for the club and our desire to see our teams compete again has continued to drive us forward and not give up.”
The move into the BFNL presents a fresh start for the club, providing new opportunities both on and off the field as they re-establish themselves in a strong regional competition.
“Joining the BFNL gives us a fantastic platform to rebuild sustainably,” Cavanagh-Welch said.
“We know there will be challenges early, but the focus is on maintaining our strong culture and giving our players, members and local community something to be proud of.”
Broadford’s return to action has also sparked renewed energy within the local community, with strong interest from players, supporters and sponsors eager to see the club back in action.
“There’s a real buzz around the town for the Club,”.
“To see people talking about Broadford FNC and getting excited for Round 1—it means a lot to everyone who has worked so hard behind the scenes,” Bonnie said.
Their inclusion not only signifies a new era for the BFNL but highlights a significant milestone in the club’s recovery, showing what can be achieved through strong leadership and community support.
What was once an uncertain future for a proud club has transformed into a story of renewal, with players, volunteers, sponsors and supporters rallying behind a united vision to bring the Roos back to life.
As the countdown to Round 1 continues, Broadford’s focus remains on embracing the moment and laying the foundations for a strong future.
“This first matchday is about more than just three games of footy and four games of netball,” Bonnie said.
“It’s about celebrating the people who helped to bring the club back and celebrating this new chapter in the BFNL.”
The club will officially start their time in the BFNL next Saturday 27 March in a standalone season opener against South Bendigo FNC at Harley Hammond Reserve in Broadford.
The fridges are stocked, the balls are pumped up, and the Broadford Kangaroos are ready to begin their Bendigo Football Netball League journey.
