The hidden gems of Queensland Aussie rules senior competitions
They are the unsung heroes of Aussie rules across Queensland - so who are these mystery men and women? SEE THE FULL LIST
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Meet the hidden gems of Aussie rules football in Queensland, the male and female stars of their respective senior competitions.
Every area, every division, after a huge season of footy in the Sunshine State we have moved to highlight the players who shined.
Toowomba/Darling Downs
Dimercia Kalenga
Club: University Cougars AFC U17 Youth Girls
Position: Half Back
Dimercia reads the game extremely well with an uncanny ability to position
herself behind the ball ready to intercept mark or impact the next contest. She is not
afraid to use her speed to break lines and take the game on. One to watch next
season as she transitions into senior footy.
Adong Wek
Club: University Cougars AFC U17 Youth Girls
Position: Utility
Adong’s greatest weapon is her commitment and dedication to learn and
improve. Adong is a strong bodied tall that can fill a key position at either end of the
ground. ‘Miss Consistent’ as you know she will work hard all day and provide a
contest every time.
Brittany Ide
Club: University Cougars AFC Senior Women
Position: Half Back
Brittany brings a wealth of experience and football knowledge to the team.
Having played football since she could walk, she has fantastic football skills with
clean hands. A true team player that will never give up.
Lilly Wormald
Club: University Cougars AFC Senior Women
Position: Utility
Lilly is new to the game and a very raw talent. An unassuming athletic tall that
has a hunger to develop her game combined with the ability to learn and adapt
quickly. As Lilly’s skills and understanding of the game develop, she will be a
powerhouse of the competition.
Xavier Sowerby
Club: University Cougars AFC Senior Men
Position: Wing
A confidence player that will benefit greatly from his first season in senior footy.
Xavier has speed to burn, a fantastic leap and a great set of hands. With another
pre-season under his belt this is a player to watch in 2023.
Ethan Carmody
Club: University Cougars AFC Senior Men
Position: Half Back
The ‘General’ of our backline, Ethan consistently neutralises the oppositions
most damaging forward. A big body that loves the contest and a challenge.
Unfortunately missed the back end of the season with injury but will be key to the
Cougars push for a Grand Final appearance in 2024.
Cam Goulter
Club: Warwick Redbacks Senior Men
Position: Utility
Cam has now played 50 games for the Redbacks over the last four seasons. A true clubman who will play any role required for his team on the field and works even harder off field volunteering at every opportunity which usually involves Cam travelling 3 hours to do so.
Connor Lloyd
Club: Warwick Redbacks Senior Men
Position: Midfield
Connor is one of the Redbacks young leaders, he first came to the club as a 15 year old in 2020 and has since been able to gain respect from the senior list by constantly displaying courage on field, going in hard at each contest and is always keen to learn and improve his game
Breisis Nean
Club: South Toowoomba Bombers U17 Youth Girls
Postion: Half Back
As a first year player Breisis has picked up the game extremely well and rivals seasoned players who have played for years.
She is fast to the ball and reads the play extremely well. She plays an integral part in the back line making it a hard line to crack.
Charlotte Holmes
Club: South Toowoomba Bombers U17 Youth Girls
Position: Utility
Charlotte is a senior member of the team who brings the team together with her strong leadership skills and boosts the morale of her team. Charlotte is a work horse and plays every position well. She leaves everything she has out on the field often putting it all on the line for the red and black. Her work ethic is second to none and her future in the senior ladies is bright.
Charlotte Whitley
Club: South Toowoomba Bombers Senior Women
Position: Fullback/Centre Half Back
Charlotte had been a key part of our group for the last few years. An understated and often underrated key position player who gives her all every game and hits a contest harder than anyone around. As a back she’s used to not always getting the prizes bit her team mates always walk taller with her around.
Bella Edwards
Club: South Toowoomba Bombers Senior Women
Position: Wing/Midfield
Bio: A superstar in juniors playing mixed footy, made the step up to seniors and looked more than comfortable. Unfortunately wasn’t able to put a full season together with school commitments and a knee injury late in the year. Everyone is very excited to see her take the senior competition by storm next year.
Callum Walters
Club: South Toowoomba Bombers Senior Men
Position: Ruckman
Bio: Cal is a true warrior of the South Toowoomba football club. He is always up for any challenge that is given to him and goes above and beyond. Has played through plenty of illness and injury this year. Always plays with his heart on his sleeve and a smile on his
Matt Duffield
Club: South Toowoomba Bombers Senior Men
Position: half back flank
Bio: Duffy is a quietly spoken and very well respected member of the South Toowoomba football club. He has a wealth of knowledge of the game and does things on a football field you can’t teach. Great human on and off the field.
AFL CAIRNS
Tyron Rainbird
Cairns City Lions
Rainbird won the Matthew Walsh Medallist (leading goal kicker) with a nine goal haul in the final game to finish with 61 goals for the season.
He finished first on the contested marks list this season with 53, 18 more than his nearest opponent.
Josh Gardner
Cairns City Lions
Half-Back/Wing
Josh really learned how to attack the football and really embraced the half back flank role. Has a brilliant kick on him, he was probably a bit stiff he didn’t get a senior call up. He would have been the most consistent player.
Troydon Ross
Cairns City Lions
Half-Forward
Comes out of the AFL Cape York House, 16 year old lad who has just come in and once he learned how to handle the bigger bodies, he became an absolute star. Finished the year off really strongly, played off the half forward flank.
Jackson Warnest
Cairns City Lions
Inside-Midfielder/Wing
Jackson has just finished out of the colts last season, the teenage gun on-baller who could play on the wing at stages, very unlucky to not get a senior game but he is one to watch going forward. He has plenty of upside and will be a great footballer when he gets a bit older.
Jarrod Prakelt
South Cairns
Forward
Jarrod is likely to win the goal kicking count for the Development grade this year with 50 goals from 14 games. He kicked 41 goals from 13 games last season.
Despite this dominance, he is yet to play a Senior game in Cairns.
Brock Bish
Cairns Saints
Midfielder
Crowned the ‘Ultimate Ressie’ last year, Brock is a cult figure out at the Saints, having been there since 2015.
Brock has played solely in the 2’s the last two years, kicking 19 goals from 15 games this season alone as a midfielder.
Jake O’Halloran
Cairns Saints
Forward
The man they call ‘Snake’, won the coveted Reg Dean Medal last year with an impressive 31 goals from 13 games.
Snake has spent some time in the Senior grade as a fill-in player, but is an aggressive leading forward in the 2’s and a popular member of the club.
Zac Straker
Cairns Saints
The dominant forward stepped into the midfield at time this season and became his forward lines dream, hitting targets lace out on a regular basis.
He kicked 42 goals this season from 16 games and finished third in the league contested marks.
Caiden Gardiner
Centrals Trinity Beach Bulldogs
Ruckman
Age 20
Caiden is a 200cm ruckman that covers the ground with ease. The 20-year-old has had limited opportunities in the Senior grade behind Zac Smith, but has been ultra impressive in the Development competition.
Mark Horne
Centrals Trinity Beach Bulldogs
Horne dominated the 2023 season, finishing first with the most disposals (556) across the 16 game home and away season.
He also finished second in contested possessions and fourth for clearances and is one of the competitons favourites to win the Crathern Medal (League Best and Fairest)
Hayden King
Manunda Hawks
Inside Midfielder
Manunda’s reigning best-and-fairest in the development competition, King is an in-and-under contested ball beast in the AFL Cairns development competition. Footy runs in the family, with the midfielder’s sister, Elisha, named an underage All-Australian before heading to Arden Street where she spent time on the North Melbourne Kangaroos’ AFLW list.
Fred Pittorino
Manunda Hawks
Forward
An AFL Cairns legend, Pittorino famously kicked five goals in a senior match at the tender age of 44 in 2020. The former captain and premiership player could potentially still pull on the boots at senior level, but these days enjoys mentoring the club’s emerging talent.
A man for all seasons, Pittorino is still an excellent cricketer. He has also previously coached the Hawks women’s team.
Andrew Welsford
Manunda Hawks
Forward
The Hawks president’s glittering AFL Cairns career spans decades. In his prime one of the best wingmen in the competition, time has slowed the body – but not the mind – of this experienced campaigner. While his work off-the-field takes up most of his time these days, the goal sneak still occasionally dons the boots when player numbers are low.
Proving the apple never falls far from the tree, Welsford’s eldest son, Josh, has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in the AFL Cairns competition in recent years.
Josh Welsford
Manunda Hawks
One of the best young stars coming through the ranks of the AFL Cairns competition.
Welsford was a shining light for Manunda this season, running hard off the half back flank to create opportunities for the Hawks’ forwards.
Jakob Stennett
North Cairns Tigers
Midfielder
Jakob won the best and fairest for the Tigers in their development side this season in what was his first year at the club. He is a solid midfielder who played two games of senior footy this season. Tough at the footy, has the ability to make opposition players look silly with his ball smarts and ability to make things happen.
Talan Bown
North Cairns Tigers
Wing
This 17-year-old gun joined the Tigers from the Hawks at the end of last season. He played most of the season on the wing but was thrown on the ball a few times this season. He is still finding his feet playing against men but doesn’t hold back, has no fear to throw his head over the ball. Bown is a player to watch as he continues to find his craft in senior footy.
AFL Townsville
Braden Kenna
Club: Thuringowa Bulldogs Reserves
Position: Ruck
Sets up well behind the play and reads really well in locking the ball forward and keeping it in the Bulldogs’ zone. Excels in taking intercept marks when the opposiiton is kicking out. Entering his football prime as a mid-20s. Earned a Senior Men’s debut in 2023 and projects as a tantalising future ruck prospect for the Bulldogs.
Jassiah Evans
Club: Thuringowa Bulldogs Reserves
Position: Full-back / Half-back
A good lockdown player. Held classy Hermit Park opponent McKye Turner to a single goal on grand final day. More of a spoiling defender, still a teenager with a bright future.
Christopher Cates
Club: Curra Swans Reserves
Position: Midfielder
Reserve Grade’s best and fairest player of 2022 is a red hot chance at taking out the 2023 accolade as well. He’s the ultimate ressie, hangs around for a beer afterwards. He’s a good combination of a fast outside possession-gatherer who roams packs very well but at centre bounce he’s very in-and-under, relying on speed and agility to get possessions. He’s a good all-rounder with ball skills, football savvy and uses space well. The only dowfall is he’s getting to an age where he’s winding down now he is in his early 30s. An Army Major who has been posted to Adelaide, has likely played his final game for the club for a while.
Aiden and Reagan Knowles
Club: Curra Swans Reserves
Position: Midfielder
The Knowles brothers are representative rugby union players but have pledged to give the Game They Play In Heaven away in 2024 to focus on their Aussie rules careers.
The brothers were still too young to buy a beer behind the club bar this season but are rapidly progressing in football.
Their future potential depends on their application, and while their football education will likely continue in reserve grade for a while yet, both have potential to be stars for the Swans Senior Men.
Tyson Schopp
Club: Hermit Park Tigers Reserves
Position: Full-back
As a backman he is everything coaches want. Grit and determination in a mobile 6’1 (184cm), 90kg package. Has all the attibutes: can take an intercept mark and spoil but his development has not benefitted from the sheltered environment of Townsville’s five-team competition.
Heath Sewer
Club: Hermit Park Tigers Reserves
Position: Midfielder
Very good by foot with a strong competitive streak, Sewer is all you could want in a midfielder. Excellent at lacing out a target. Undersized but consistently punches above his weight. When he gets hit he bounces up and is straight back into the play. The engine never stops, can run all day on-ball or on the flank.
Will Owens
Club: University Hawks Reserves
Position: Ruck
A quiet type who has earned the moniker ‘Golden Fist’ at University’s reserves. When you spot Owens approaching an aerial contest the Hawks fan out because the Sherrin usually winds up 20-30m away when Owens gets up to spoil. Aged in his mid-30s, Owens is a valued mentor to a diverse group of ages and football experience.
Ty Fidoe
Club: University Hawks Reserves
Position: Midfielder
A Senior Men’s veteran in AFL Townsville who ranked 35 in the Townsville Bulletin’s Top 100 players of 2022. With family life taking priority Fidoe has dropped back to the club’s reserves but has embraced life as a leader in the lower grades. Coaches appreciate that Fidoe never needs instruction but will identify problem areas on the field and fix them himself - a lesson the staff hopes others around him are learning while sharing the pitch with the wily veteran.
Nathan Wescombe
Club: Northern Beaches Suns Reserves
Position: Utility
An on-ball midfielder in his youth, veteran Nathan Wescombe has at times been called into the Suns’ Senior Men’s forward pocket to plug a gap. His bag of tricks is chock-full and his experience helps Wescombe step into any position required.
Isaac Trueman
Club: Northern Beaches Suns Reserves
Position: Utility
Moved up and down the field, Northern Beaches are still working out where Isaac Trueman bets fits into their team. A tall marking forward could be his perfect position but his chances to play up front have been limited by deficiencies in talent around him.
AFL Capricornia
Michael Gallagher
Club: Yeppoon Swans senior men
Comments: A staple in the Yeppoon Swans A-Grade side for many years, Gallagher established himself as an elite midfielder in AFL Capricornia this season. An elusive ball winner, he has the capacity to weave through traffic and find space where many cannot. He can be equally as damaging and prolific off half-back, and was a key cog in the Swans 2023 premiership win.
Alex Chapman
Club: Yeppoon Swans senior men
Comment: Despite missing the first five rounds with a hamstring injury, Chapman quickly showed his value as a mid/forward upon return. Possessing a turn of speed that allows him to exit the contest with ease, and a penetrating, precise kick on both feet, he has the capacity to turn a game quickly and is a tough match-up for opposition players.
Ty Fitzgerald
Club: BITS Saints senior men
Comment: A talented midfielder/defender, Fitzgerald is strong and fit and can run all day. He has improved his game in the air and his attack on the ball is outstanding. At just 17, he is a
player with plenty of potential.
Will Raffin
Club: BITS Saints senior men
He is only 17 but Raffin is already the complete package. A midfielder/middle forward, he is an excitement machine who possesses all the skills, among them ability overhead, speed and mobility. He is a member of the Gold Coast Suns Academy and was instrumental in BITS’ run to the AFL Capricornia grand final this year.
Jamie Hill
Club: Gladstone Suns senior men
Comment: Fast and agile, Hill is an outstanding midfield/forward rotation. Aggressive on the footy, he is athletic for his height and has great ground skills. An astute decision-maker, he displays all the traits of a future leader.
Jack Charlie
Club: Gladstone Suns senior men
Comment: Charlie has been a welcome addition to the Suns’ line-up this season. His versatility makes him a great option in the midfield or up front. Lightning quick, he is agile and elusive and is an aggressive tackler.
James Richardson
Club: Brothers Kangaroos senior men
Comment: Richardson is a hard-working centre who gives it everything every time he takes the field. A tackling machine, he does his best work at the bottom of the pack.
Brent Wood
Club: Brothers Kangaroos senior men
Comment: The veteran rover who runs hard and accumulates kicks all over the ground. His experience and understanding means he finds himself in the right place at the right time to get a lot of the ball. A tough and aggressive footballer who loves the contest.
Nathan Casperson
Club: Glenmore senior men
Comment: A new recruit for the Bulls this year, Casperson made a big impression in the midfield. He wins a lot of contested ball and tackles tirelessly. An extremely hard runner, he works both ends of the ground all day.
Darcy Payne
Club: Glenmore senior men
Comment: An experienced campaigner and the Bulls’ captain, Payne is one of the most consistent performers in the AFL Capricornia competition. Playing at full forward or in the midfield, he is a hard runner, has silky skills on the outside and a penetrating kick. A very physical presence, he has great hands, he moves well and kicks a lot of clutch goals.
Haidyn Thomas
Club: Rockhampton Panthers senior men
Comment: The midfielder is a strong marking option and consistent ball winner. He shines in the contested ball situation and is great in the air and on the ground. Thomas is one of those players who lifts those around him by doing all the hard things needed to get the team going.
Travis Young
Club: Rockhampton Panthers senior men
Comment: The Panthers’ captain is an explosive midfielder. The “super glue” of the playing group, he brings everyone together with his positive talk and leads from the front with his actions. His contested work continues to improve and he can also find the scoreboard, regularly kicking a couple of goals per game.
Stacey Anderson
Club: Yeppoon Swans senior women
Comment: A talented midfielder, Anderson is fit, fast and skillful on both sides of her body. Represented North Queensland this year, and was named the team’s best in their annual rep clash with South Queensland. One of Yeppoon’s most consistent, she is now a time-time premiership winner with the club.
Katelyn Lynch
Club: Yeppoon Swans senior women
Comment: A North Queensland representative this year, Lynch can fill the role or ruck of midfielder. She possesses all the skills, in particular a great mark, and has a great work ethic on both the training paddock and playing field.
Amy Mill
Club: Rockhampton Panthers senior women
Comment: A two-time North Queensland representative, Mill is one of the most dangerous players in the AFL Capricornia competition. She works tirelessly in the midfield and always produces four quarters of tough, competitive football. She’s always in and around the contest, can burst away from stoppages and weaves in and out of traffic really well. She has a lethal left foot and is a player opposition teams know to be wary of.
Elise Bottcher
Club: Rockhampton Panthers senior women
Comment: One of Panthers’ best again in season 2023, Bottcher is a hard-running midfielder who is solid at the contest. She can consistently bust through packs and delivers the ball long
for her forwards.
Meagan Rickertt
Club: Glenmore senior women
Comment: One of the most feared players in the AFL Capricornia women’s ranks, Rickertt took out competition’s Best and Fairest award this year. Fast, fit and powerful, she has all the skills. She works hard at every aspect of her game and her passion and motivation is reflected in her on-field performances.
Emily Richardson
Club: Glenmore senior women
Comment: A young gun who just loves the game (and Carlton), Richardson has been Glenmore’s Best and Fairest for the past two years. A tower of strength in the midfield who accumulates a lot of possession and tackles strongly. She is a good positional player who reads the game well.
Melinda Hornbrook
Club: Gladstone Suns senior women
Comment: One of the most experienced players for the Suns, Hornbrook is closing in on 150 games. A dominant force in the backline, she reads the game well and constantly repels the opposition attack. She is a good talker and organiser at the back.
Kate Turner
Club: Gladstone Suns senior women
Comment: Turner is the Suns’ inspirational captain and a workhorse at centre. She gets better with every outing and gives 110 percent in every game. She goes hard at the ball and has a strong and accurate kick.
Gabby Fitzgerald
Club: Brothers Kangaroos senior women
Comment: A midfielder/winger whose ability was rewarded with North Queensland selection this year. Fast and nimble, Fitzgerald wins a lot of contested football and her left-foot kick is one of the best in the game.
Taivia Dunne
Club: Brothers Kangaroos senior women
Comment: Dunne has the ability to capably fill positions in the midfield and backline, and her strong contested mark is one of the best in the competition. Another left-footer, she is also a skilled kicker.
Danielle Fenwick
Club: BITS Saints senior women
Comment: A formidable force on the field known for her toughness, line-breaking ability and exceptional intercept marking.Fenwick’s ability to read the game and anticipate opposition moves allows her to rebound the footy, creating opportunities for her team to move the ball forward. Danielle‘s impeccable intercept marking consistently denies the opposition’s attacking play, making her a defensive powerhouse.
Riccilee Miller
Club: BITS Saints senior women
Comment: Miller repeatedly demonstrates her unwavering toughness on the field, fearlessly contesting the ball, showing little respect for her own safety. Her courage shines through in critical moments, whether it‘s diving into a pack of players to deliver a handball, contesting a crucial mark or fearlessly tackling opponents twice her size. Her ability to cover the ground and chase down opponents, combined with a never give up attitude, make her an asset.
AFL Mackay
Bailey Wishart
Club: Whitsunday Sea Eagles senior men
Position: Midfielder
Wishart has excelled in his first year playing seniors out on the wing. At just 18 years of age, he’s quick, skilful, and a goalkicker. Also a favourite among his teammates.
Mitch Healey
Club: Whitsunday Sea Eagles senior men
Position: Full-back
Healy’s dominant in the air and has a good, long kick. He’s had a strong season, expect to see him in the top-five of the Whitsunday best and fairest.
Harry Thompson
Club: Mackay Magpies senior men
Position: Midfielder/forward
Thompson has the versatility to operate as a rover or small forward, and his will to win the footy is what sets him apart. He never gives up, and his effort’s contagious.
Blake Thompson
Club: Mackay Magpies senior men
Position: Midfielder
Of no relation to teammate Harry, Blake’s a pacy wingman that’s making his mark at the senior level. He’s still eligible for the under-17s, and lines up for Moranbah’s junior side most weekends, doubling up when he can.
Jameson Beatson
Club: Eastern Swans senior men
Position: Defender
A key defender, Beatson’s very competitive and committed. He always want the opposition’s best player, which is a great trait for a 20-year-old. Also has the ability to go forward, and is aided by his great run and leap. Made the Team of the Year this season.
Joseph Hackney
Club: Eastern Swans senior men
Position: Defender/midfielder
Hackney accompanied Beatson in the Team of the Year this season, named on the wing. He’s also potent off the half-back flank, and is a great reader of the footy. Is hard at the footy when he needs to be, and loves to run and carry.
Thomas Johnson
Club: North Mackay Saints senior men
Position: Forward/midfielder
Johnson will bring good forward pressure to the AFL Mackay finals and is also a great finisher in front of goal. It’s his second senior finals campaign.
Cohen Frith
Club: North Mackay Saints senior men
Position: Forward/midfielder
Frith’s one of the youngest players in the competition at just 16 years of age, and also often doubles up playing under-17s before his seniors. Tied for the under-17s best and fairest this season.
Ryan Lee
Club: Whitsunday Sea Eagles senior men
Position: Defender
A centre half-back, Lee’s quick, but arguably his best trait is his knack for producing random skill when needed, hence his appearance on this list. He’s also a long kick, and tied for third in the league best and fairest this season.
Billy Galpin
Club: Whitsunday Sea Eagles senior men
Position: Midfielder/forward
Galpin’s a good runner and dominant midfield player, but can float forward and impact the scoreboard as well as anyone’s. Was the Sea Eagles’ leading goalkicker this season.
Reegan Underwood
Club: Mackay Magpies senior men
Position: Midfielder
Underwood’s a player of a similar ilk to his elimination final opponent Galpin. He’s the Magpies leading goalkicker and is more than capable of breaking games open and kicking three or four goals in a quarter, yet he can also operate as an on-baller and make an impact out of the centre.
Ethan Goodwin
Club: Mackay Magpies senior men
Position: Ruck
He may be a ruckman, but don’t let that fool you, Goodwin’s tremendously agile and moves like an on-baller despite his size. Is also buoyed by his athleticism, allowing him to take strong marks and play as a capable goalkicker. Doesn’t mind a goal straight out of the ruck.
George Hannaford
Club: Eastern Swans senior men
Position: Forward/defender
Hannaford’s coach Carl Teske described him as a “physical specimen,” and he’s one of the strongest and fittest players going around in AFL Mackay. Can play anywhere, but is most often sighted at the key forward or key back posts. Loves the big occasions, and is capable of turning games off his boot, especially finals.
David Manning
Club: Eastern Swans senior men
Position: Midfielder
Manning’s an elite on-baller and a super competitive player. He loves the crowd and the big stage according to Teske, meaning he’s primed to take the finals by storm. Made the Team of the Year this season and won the league best and fairest last year.
Steven Pugh
Club: North Mackay Saints senior men
Position: Midfielder
There’s no questioning Pugh’s status as one of the competition’s premier players. The North Mackay captain was also named captain in the Team of the Year, and tied for the league best and fairest with teammate Jacob Wilson. A left-footer who’s hard at the footy, Pugh’s a small, resilient, and tough footballer, who epitomises what the Saints stand for.
Jacob Wilson
Club: North Mackay Saints senior men
Position: Ruck
“Never know what he’ll do,” in the words of his coach, which is what gives Wilson x-factor. Undisputedly one of the competition’s best players, as he tied the league best and fairest with Pugh, which is an achievement in itself for a ruckman. Can also take big hangers.
Lachlan Nelson
Club: Bakers Creek Tigers senior men
Position: Midfielder/defender
Nelson’s a strong outside midfielder that’s ferocious at the footy and impressive technically. He’s a strong and determined outside midfielder that cracked the AFL Mackay Team of the Year. Also rotates through the back pocket.
James Rix
Club: Bakers Creek Tigers senior men
Position: Defender
The Tigers captain, Rix is a strong centre half back that can also drift to half forward when needed. His greatest strength is his aerial prowess, and he picks off intercept marks with ease. Has kept his side in games on numerous occasions.
Sam Cairns
Club: North Mackay Saints reserves men
Position: Midfielder
Cairns is the vice-captain of the Saints reserves, and can play on-ball or on the wing. He’s a hard worker that runs all day and gets himself to every contest. The heart and soul of his side.
Cam McBride
Club: North Mackay Saints reserves men
Position: Defender
A dominant reserves player, McBride is the captain of his side and has won both club and league best and fairests in the two’s. A strong rebounding defender, he controls the game from half-back and is practically untaggable.
Lachlan Ross
Club: Bakers Creek Tigers reserves men
Position: Midfielder
Ross is a Tigers stalwart and has been at the club for 15 years. The on-baller is reliable and hard at the footy, and never stops working.
Tim Wauchope
Club: Bakers Creek Tigers reserves men
Position: Ruck
Wauchope’s a genuine workhorse, and he’s known to play reserves and seniors footy in the same day when the club needs him to. The ruckman uses his height to his advantage superbly and is always competing.
Matthew Hungerford
Club: Mackay Magpies reserves men
Position: Defender
Captaining the Magpies reserves to premiership glory this season capped off a dominant return to footy for Hungerford, who’d taken a decade off due to a series of bad head knocks when he was younger. A natural athlete, Hungerford’s well polished in all areas of his game and was a runner-up in the league best and fairest.
Charlie Jones
Club: Mackay Magpies reserves men
Positon: Forward/midfielder
Jones has an abundance of talent, but his application hadn’t always matched until this season, and he’s now taken his game to new heights. Tore the first quarter of the prelim against Eastern Swans open.
Siobhan Carlton
Club: North Mackay Saints senior women
Position: Midfielder/centre half back
It’s been a breakout season for Carlton, earning selection in the Queensland Women’s side that travelled to North Hobart Oval to take on Tasmania. She’s high in football ability, but also possesses great IQ, and her positional awareness sets her apart. “As long as she’s on the field the team has a chance,” said coach James Gallagher.
Emily Upton
Club: North Mackay Saints senior women
Position: Forward/midfielder
Upton’s an extremely versatile player, and can often be sighted on the wing, in the guts, or up forward. Was 16 when she started her senior career with the Saints and flourished. She’s technical, skilful, determined, and has great temperament for her age.
Tanacha Saunders
Club: Bakers Creek senior women
Position: Midfielder
The Tigresses captain put together another strong season. She’s a tough midfielder that runs really well both ways, has good hands, and is a good leader. Also links up well and is a good team player.
Indiana Brough
Club: Bakers Creek senior women
Position: Midfielder
Brough’s strengths are underpinned by her two-way running ability, she sets up very well behind the ball and helps her defence out well. Has good hands and is a strong worker.
Cleo Dickie
Club: Whitsunday Sea Eagles senior women
Position: Midfielder
It was a strong year fro Dickie, who cracked the AFL Mackay Team of the Year, and also represented North Queensland in a feature clash against South Queensland in Cairns. A tall player, she’s understandably strong and athletic given she’s a fitness instructor.
Mia Trinder
Club: Whitsunday Sea Eagles senior women
Position: Midfielder
A versatile player that can shift out to the wing, Trinder’s just 16 years of age and has already cracked the AFL Mackay Team of the Year. She’s also in the Suns Academy and has elite skills.
Jen Kimber
Club: Moranbah Bulldogs senior women
Position: Midfielder
The younger sister of Gold Coast AFLW talent Kaylee Kimber, Jen has the potential to be just as good, if not better than her older sister. She always has the footy on a string and can turn on a dime, but her greatest strength is arguably her ability read the play. Senior coach Andrew Johnstone is blown away by her talent, “I’ve never seen anything like it,” he remarked. Jen’s already dominating AFL Mackay at just 16 years of age. She’s also a talented league player, don’t be surprised to see the Moranbah product’s name in lights in years to come.
Henriette van Rensburg
Club: Moranbah Bulldogs senior women
Position: Defender/midfielder/ruck
Co-captain of the Bulldogs, van Rensburg is a dominant player. She’s strong and over six-foot tall, and uses her height well, shaping as a serious asset in defence. An extremely versatile player, she can also play on-ball and rucks at centre bounces.
Abbey Rankin
Club: Mackay City Hawks
Position: Midfielder
Despite being only 17 years of age, Rankin spearheaded the Hawks late season surge to the grand final, and was one, if not their best, players a number of times in the weeks leading into the decider. The on-baller hails from Moranbah originally, and is part of the Gold Coast Suns Academy. She was awarded the prestigious Troy Clarke Scholarship in 2022.
Demi Leach
Club: Mackay City Hawks
Position: Midfielder
The Hawks co-captain is one of the best talents running around in AFL Mackay Women’s. She’s a tough and gritty on-baller, but also has an abundance of class and poise. An all-round class player.
Molly Hocking
Club: Mackay City Hawks
Position: Ruck
Hocking’s tall and agile, and while she contests the ruck, she basically operates as another on-baller once she hits the ground, such is her versatility. Can play all over the ground.
BRISBANE
Oscar Clarke
Club: UQ Red Lions QFA Div 1 Reserves
Position: Wing
A barometer type guy, Clarke can go and go all day and at times doesn’t look tired.
Lachlan Stedman
Club: UQ Red Lions QFA Div 1 Reserves
Position: Midfield
A tough Tasmanian trooper, Stedman must have the clutch gene because in the preliminary final against Mayne he kicked a crucial goal late in the piece.
Mayne however ended up getting the chocolates.
George Clinton
Club: UQ Red Lions QFA Div 1 Reserves
Position: Ruck/forward
The forward has great follow up trackle pressure and is one of the last people you want to run at.
Cameron Poharama
Club: Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Reserves Men
Position: Forward
He wears jersey No.16 and is the league’s leading goal kicker in 2023.
Strong and reliable, Poharama knows how to use his body to gain the hard ball and is a good strong mark.
Max Gamble
Mt Gravatt, QAFL Reserves Men
Position: Midfielder
If you’re a gambler, take a punt on this guy being a consistent top three performer who leads from the front with his team first attitude.
Jarrod McDonald
Club: Sandgate Hawks QFA Div 4 North
Position: Forward Mid
McDonald is a classy footballer who takes his rivals on every tiime without question.
Uses both feet and loves bagging a goal.
Josh Lauchs
Club: Sandgate Haws QFA Div 4 North
Position: Midfielder
An in-and-under player, Lauchs plays above his size and gives 110 per cent.
A great team player like McDonald (see above), Lauchs is the ideal teammate.
Kat Bennett
Club: Jindalee Jags Div 2 Women QAFW
Mid field Kat Bennett is hard at the contest, consistent as they come and highly skilled.
Leads the way with her competitive edge.
Monty Ruff
Club: Morningside Demons QAFL Reserves MEN
The high flying intercept defender has been a revelation this season and is the king of turning a pressurized situation into a counter attack.
Tim Peck
Club: Jindalee Jags QFA div 2 North Alpha sport seniors
Position : Midfield
The muscular Peck is Agile with a capital A.
Brave and skilful, Peck leads the pack with his leadership and finds a way through traffic better than most.
Dani Bishop-Kinlyside
Club: Noosa Tigers QAFW
Position: Full forward, forward pocket
The 38-year-old vice captain has a knack for scoring and the proof is in the pudding.
That pudding is her 11 goal spree against Marooka earlier in the season.
A tenasious team player, grand final hero Bishop-Kinlyside is the league’s leading goal kicker.
Jack Campbell
Club: Wilston Grange Reserve Grade Men
Position: Wing
Consistency is key and Campbell is king when it comes to that.
A clean user of the football, Campbell has an uncanny ability to break lines.
Will Pfitzner
Club: Wilston Grange Reserve Grade Men
Position: Inside Mid
The Marist College Ashgrove Firsts Aussie Rules and Firsts Cricket sporting allrounder is a small bodied ball winner who loves getting in and under.
Jonah Fidler
Club: Wilston Grange Reserve Grade Men
Position: Defender
A big bodied lockdown defender that transformed himself into a midfielder.
Like Pfitzner and Campbell, Fidler’s performances have him knocking on the door of first grade.
Lachlan Marolla
Club: Sandgate
Position: Midfielder
Sandgate’s top performer in season 2023.
Marolla is undersized in his position but boy does he make up for it.
A work horse, Marolla runs both ways all day, rotating through the backline.
Skillful with instinct and IQ, Marolla knows sees a play before it happens and is vital to the team’s success.
Also, spare a thought for Will Lovett, another player the Hawks could clone if they could.
Jaiden Fowler
Club: Redcliffe
Position: Inside midfielder
THe hard working Redcliffe talent is a two-way runner who is the person for the a crisis.
An ace decision maker.
Zach Templeton
Club: Kenmore Bears
Templeton is that guy, playing and assistant coaching the Bears team.
A beautifully balanced player with skill, Templeton organises the attack and has an uncanny way of involving his teammates into the contest.
He si a player that has time.
Matthew Waters
Club: Kenmore Bears
While Tepleton is giving his insights, Waters, among others, is a sponge who has soaked it up and become a leading player in the tesam.
A prime mover for the Bears, Waters is a strong all round player.
Alex Brewster
Club: Yeronga
Backline player Alex “Punky” Brewster is general in every meaning of the word.
He competes from the first whistle to the last, drives the standards on and off the field and has left an imprint on the club after moving up from Tasmania last year.
A special player that is a huge part of the fabric at Yeronga.
Ben Bisset
Club: Alexandra Hills QFA Div 2 North Seniors
Position: Key forward
Bisset is a beauty. An irresplaceable player, not just because he is in charge of music but because his name is the name circled by every opposition coach.
A hard worker with great hands and commmunicaiton, Bisset has kicked over 50 goals in each of the last few seasons and it is a wonder why he arrives on game day in such a good mood because when the game starts he is already being double-teamed.
When he is in the forward line he is taking care of business but off the field he teaches other forwards new tricks.
Tommy Hurst
Club: Park Ridge QFA Div 2 North Seniors
The 22-year-old Hurst was a Park Ridge junior whose explosiveness and speed is his point of difference.
Super skilled and dynamic, Hurst was runner up in the League Medal last year after missing the final two games saw him lose by one vote.
But don’t worry, all signs point towards Hurst having his medal this year as he has been on another level.
Has won the Club’s Best adn Fairest award for the last two years and a hattrick looms.
SOUTH EAST
Mia Henry
Club: Ballina Bombers, QFAW women’s division 2
Position: wing or in the forwards
Comment: A formidable left foot with great marking and crumbing skills. A Ballina junior who has established themselves as a key player in the senior side and a great example of the junior talent in the region.
Meg McGuiness
Club: Ballina Bombers, QFAW women’s division 2
Position: Centre half forward/anywhere she’s needed
Comment: A brilliantly well-rounded and hard working forward. Would be the focal point on any side, at any level.
Laani Winkler-Harding
Club: Ballina Bombers, QFAW women’s division 2
Position: Midfield
Comment: Elite by foot and will win any contest on the ground or in the air. Unrivaled game sense.
Ellie Mcfadden
Club: Ballina Bombers, QFAW women’s division 2
Position: Midfield
Comment: Wins more contested possessions than anyone else. Composed in traffic and integral to getting the ball to the outside.
Narelle Smith
Club: Ipswich Eagles, women’s seniors
Position: Inside midfield
Comment: Offers speed and great footwork and is an exceptional team player. Smith has had an outstanding year, winning best and fairest in the Coolangatta Cup and representing South Australia in the over 35s, where she then made the All-Australian team.
Caitlin Mayer
Club: Ipswich Eagles, women’s seniors
Position: Midfield
Comment: Mayer has speed to burn. Her ability to read the play means she also holds a crucial role in setting up the Eagles game play.
Alananah Gorman
Club: Ipswich Eagles, women’s seniors
Position: Utility player
Comment: A very talented player with great marking skills. Gorman can slide into any key position and play it well, which is a huge bonus for her team.
Drew Mitchell
Sherwood Football Club, QFA men’s division 3
Position: Midfield/ forward
Comment: A former captain and Best and Fairest recipient in the QAFL. Mitchell coached the Allies midfield this year.
Valentine (Val) Pope
Sherwood Football Club, QFA men’s division 3
Position: Midfield/ forward
Comment: Pope is a multi-premiership winning former QAFL athlete. Some say he’s the best Sherwood Football Club has ever seen. With that legacy to his name, Pope now sticks with the club’s division 3 side.
Anthony Corrie
Sherwood Football Club, QFA men’s division 3
Position: Forward
Comment: The name might sound familiar, since Corrie previously played for the Lions and Collingwood. He now resides at Sherwood FC with premierships under his belt.
Liam Corboy
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFA men’s division 4
Position: Small forward
Comment: He is the leading goal kicker for the competition in 2023, and at just 22, Corboy’s coach describes him as unpredictable in the best way possible.
Beau Joyce
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFA men’s division 4
Position: Midfield
Comment: Joyce is simply sensational on the field. He runs hard and is any coach’s delight: easy to train, and always on the improve.
Wade Hurst
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFA men’s division 4
Position: Midfield
Comment: At 44,Hurst is the perfect example of Mt Gravatt’s talented age range. He may be what coach Rod Nuttal describes as a ‘non-running midfield,’ but he sure knows how to play.
Jack Hillier
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFA men’s division 4
Position: Utility
Comment: Another 22-year-old star, Hillier is one of those talented players who aren’t in the elite pathway. He simply just wants to play with his mates and put on a good show of footy each week.
Brad Nutall
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFA men’s division 4
Position: Midfield
Comment: Nutall’s specialty is his contested possessions. He loves the contest.
Thomas Preston Smith
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFA men’s division 4
Position: Fullback
Comment: Smith has gone through a number of knee injuries, but keeps coming back with the same love for footy. He is a joy to coach, gets to every game early and is downright professional in his play.
Tom Bennetts
Club: Pacific Pines, QFA men’s division 3
Position: Midfielder
Comment: Get ready for this wrap sheet. Bennetts came to Pacific Pines when he was 22. Now 25, the 6’1 midfielder is no doubt one of the best the club has ever seen. Bennetts reaches the 15km mark constantly, and boasts a strong contest. He’s a work horse, and has been awarded back-to-back season Best and Fairest awards. If that’s not enough, the multi-premiership winning captain once kicked 17 goals in a single game at 18, and rattled off 49 disposals in the 2022 grand final and 31 disposals in this year’s.
Mitchell Vasterink
Club: Pacific Pines, QFA men’s division 3
Position: Forward
Comment: Has won back-to-back league goal kicker awards. Vasterink is hard to miss, with a strong 6’6 frame. He just finished his second year in the forward pack after being used to the ruck. He is ridiculously athletic and has some of the biggest hands his coach has ever seen on a human.
Jake Read
Club: Pacific Pines, QFA men’s division 3
Position: Midfield
Comment: 20-year-old Read is a zippy, lightning quick midfielder who was previously in the Gold Coast Suns academy. No one can tackle him, according to his coach, because he‘s simply too fast. That speed is his biggest attribute. Read also managed 24 disposals in the grand final.
Joel Baxter
Club: Pacific Pines, QFA men’s division 3
Position: Midfield
Comment: A big-bodied midfielder built of nothing but muscle. Baxter was named Best on Ground in the grand final this year after accumulating 30 goals as a permanent midfielder through the season.
Isabella “Izzy” McDonough
Club: Sandgate, QFAW women’s division 1 Seniors
Position: Midfielder
Comment: A 17 year old midfielder who played her first year of senior footy this year at Sandgate. She is a hard running and highly talented left footer, who brings elite tackle pressure and ball winning ability. Izzy is a member of the Brisbane Lions Academy and next year I think she will take her game to another level to be one of the best U18 midfielders in Qld.
Shayla Lloyd
Club: Pacific Pines, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Midfield / Defence
Comment: Blistering pace that comes from being an ex sprinter. Tough as they come with her contested ball winning ability and pursuit to tackle.
Dakota Milne
Club: Pacific Pines, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Defence
Comment: 19 year old captain. She is courageous in the air with excellent marking ability. Milne makes good decisions by foot and is an outstanding leader.
Maddie Zandi
Club: Pacific Pines, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Midfield
Comment: Zandi is an ex-basketballer with terrific spatial awareness and decision making skills. Elite by hand amongst congestion and shakes off opposition tacklers.
Estha Nulty
Club: Pacific Pines, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Ruck
Comment: The most athletic ruck in the league, according to her coach. Nutly has a great mix of speed & endurance with an impressive vertical leap. Runs hard to support defenders behind the ball.
Emily Kolsteeg
Club: Pacific Pines, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Key Defender
Comment: Excellent reader of the play from the backline, taking several intercept marks a game. A pin point kick on the run which allows her team to generate a lot off their offence from the back half.
Caitlin Renner
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Centre Half Back
Comment: The Great Wall of Mt Gravatt, Caitlin is highly skilled and an excellent leader. She is known for her pack marks and aggressive runs out of the backline.
Claudia Nothdurft
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Ruck
Comment: Claudia is relatively new to the game with just two year of AFL under her belt however she has established herself as the dominant ruck in the Div 2 South Competition. She is agile and mobile around the ground, able to win ground balls as well as provide exquisite service to her midfielders as stoppages.
Ash Condon
Club: Mt Gravatt, QFAW women’s division 2 south
Position: Half Forward Flank
Comment: A converted touch football player, Ash has natural agility around the ground.
She is one of the hardest working players in the competition, who always put in extra effort working on her craft before and after training.this saw her averaging 2 goals a game for most of the year.
Ryleigh Wotherspoon
Club: Sherwood, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Utility / Midfield
Comment: Raw talent meets hard work, resilience and coachability. Wotherspoon arrived at Sherwood eager to help run some water for her team while she was returning from injury having not played Aussie Rules since she was 12 years old in Mackay. Debuting for Sherwood in Round 12 against Broadbeach announced herself as a player to watch, busting through packs, selling candy and kicking a goal of the year nominee. Key strengths are 360 awareness, clean hands and silky disposal efficiency on both sides of the body. Class human who will go very far in whatever sport/s she applies herself to!
Samara Mahoney
Club: Sherwood, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Midfield / Forward
Comment: Mahoney is one of the most decorated local footballers going around with 3x Best & Fairest medals, 1 league medal, 2 x senior premierships and 50 senior matches to her name (the first woman to achieve this milestone at Sherwood). Juggling a busy law degree, footy has been a healthy balance for Mahoney hitting the books in the day and hitting the scoreboard in the evening. Ultra consistent contested ball winner, her game has improved each year with her skill level and vision to bring teammates into the game her key attributes.
Lauren Perry
Club: Surfers Paradise, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Halfback
Comment: Elite runner with explosive speed off the mark. Perry boasts all-round great skills and was co-captain of her side in 2023.
Maleah Watts
Club: Surfers Paradise, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Midfielder/ forward
Comment: Fellow co-captain to Perry, Watts found herself with an injured ankle early in the season. Nevertheless, she showed her competitiveness both on the sideline and in her return to the field.
Jekaya Lam
Club: Surfers Paradise, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Defender
Comment: One of Surfers’ toughest athletes, Lam is consistently strong in the contest which makes her a top notch talent.
Shelby Harrison
Club: Surfers Paradise, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Winger
Comment: Harrison boasts a variety of skills including her ability to run far and fast. As a winger, she uses the ball well to get inside 50 and make the most of Surfers’ offensive plays.
Jaylee Morris
Club: Surfers Paradise, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Midfielder
Comment: Another tough player on ball, Morris is known for giving every game 100%. She has the highly sought after ‘never give up’ attitude that coaches love.
Madison Tallis
Club: Redcliffe Tigers, QFAW women’s division 1 seniors
Position: Wing/Midfielder
Comment: One of the fastest and most naturally gifted players to go under the radar. At 17, she was named in the best for the South Queensland Representative side during the year and is a smokey for league Best and Fairest
Jazinta Hardy
Club: Redcliffe Tigers, QFAW women’s division 1 reserves
Position: Centre
Comment: Ferocious player that has speed and skill, only young for a senior but played both Seniors and Reserves for the club. Big future ahead for Jazzy.
Sunshine Coast
Josh Nanninga
Club: Hinterland Blues (QFA Division 1)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Has really shone since he’s been given the opportunity in the middle of the park. Has taken his game to another level again in 2023 as a great tackler, great skills and a solid in-and-under player.
Zac Diekman
Club: Hinterland Blues (QFA Division 1)
Position: Defender
Comments: Is a tall, athletic youngster that has held down a key position for the Blues in 2023 as a key defender. There’s plenty of exciting growth and development still to come from Diekman.
Isaac Richardson
Club: Hinterland Blues (QFA Division 1)
Position: Defender
Comments: Is another tall defender that takes on the best forwards every week. Richardson has taken the role with both hands and stood tall as one of the Blues best performing players for the entire year.
Blake Ryan
Club: Maroochydore Roos (QAFL Reserves)
Position: Centre Half Forward/Ruckman
Comments: Has improved immensely this season as a key tall forward and a big strong marking target.
Bailey Eva
Club: Maroochydore Roos (QAFL Reserves)
Position:
Comments: Has been a standout improver this season for the Roos, making his senior debut in round 11. Eva started the year down back but has become a creative midfielder and a key reason for the Roos finals push in 2023.
Harry Kerr
Club: Maroochydore Roos (QAFL Reserves)
Position: Full forward
Comments: Has been a consistent reserves player throughout the second half of the season. Kerr kicked 36 goals in just nine appearances in 2023, finishing second on the overall leaderboard by just one goal.
Billy Arnold
Club: Noosa Tigers (QAFL Reserves)
Position: Midfielder
Comments: Arnold is a silky key defender that rarely loses a one on one. He’s versatile enough to play key forward or in the ruck and is a real x-factor for the Tigers.
Mason Gilfillan
Club: Noosa Tigers (QAFL Reserves)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Gilfillan is a tough, in and under midfielder capable of playing as a dangerous small forward. He played multiple senior games across the year and his second and third efforts and penetrating left boot are a highlight of his game.
Rhys Tarling
Club: Noosa Tigers (QAFL Reserves)
Position: Midfield/Forward
Comments: Tarling is an ultra consistent player that is capable of playing multiple positions, he’s a beautiful kick of the football and dangerous going forward.
Harrison Ronchi
Club: Caloundra Panthers (QFA Division 1)
Position: Half Back
Comments: Ronchi stepped up as a 16-year-old this season to play senior footy and earnt selection into the Queensland U17 team. Is a clear superstar of the future and an absolute jet out on the field. Has exceptional skills on and off the ball and is as tough as nails.
Jae Bath
Club: Caloundra Panthers (QFA Division 1)
Position: Defender
Comments: Was the Panthers equal leading goalkicker in 2022 before shifting to a key defender as a 19-year-old. Bath finished inside the top five for the club’s best and fairest rankings with a huge left-foot kick, strong athleticism and crashes packs for the fun of it.
Kade Kent
Club: Gympie Cats (QFA Division 2 North)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Took home the Cats best and fairest award in 2022 and continued his red hot form in 2023 after being named as the side’s co-captain. He’s a hard inside midfielder with an accurate left foot kick and never backs away from a contest.
Frankie Robinson
Club: Northshore Jets (QFA Division 3 North)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Is constantly hunting the ball and never backs down from a contest. Loves taking on an opposition player one-on-one and can create time and space for the players around him.
Josh Hawksworth
Club: Northshore Jets (QFA Division 3 North)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Another Jets on-ball specialist that is as tough as nails and always puts his body on the line. Has been an influential standout for the Jets in 2023.
Jackson Woolley
Club: Caloundra Panthers (QFA Division 1 Reserves)
Position: Ruckman
Comments: Is a classic Sunshine Coast surfer that played the beginning of the season in first grade before really finding his feet at the reserve grade level. Woolley has the skills to take high-flying marks, kick big goals and help boost his teammates to another level. Woolley received the most best and fairest votes in 2023 but unfortunately missed out on the award due to a one game suspension.
Zac Aumunn
Club: Glasshouse (QFA Division 4 North)
Position: Midfield
Comments: A player that never gives up and always puts in 100 percent effort for his side. The crafty midfielder is a key team player with a duffle bag of skills.
Mitch Cross
Club: Glasshouse (QFA Division 4 North)
Position: Half Back flank
Comments: Is a flat out running machine that never seems to stop. Can beat a player one-on-one and always picks out the most beneficial team option.
Raegan Mills
Club: Noosa Tigers (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Is a high impact, in and under midfielder that has a high footy IQ and an elite skill set to match. Has proved as a standout performer for the Tigers since their inaugural season.
Dani Bishop-Kinlyside
Club: Noosa Tigers (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Forward
Comments: A tenacious and electric forward that constantly puts the opposition in two minds. Has an elite goal sense and accuracy and booted home 11 majors in one game this season.
Jaspar Jordan
Club: Hinterland Blues (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Ruck/Centre-half back
Comments: Was selected into the South East Queensland side in 2023 after some dominant performances for her side. Can play both sides of the ball extremely well and is among the top performing players each week.
Jaymee Park
Club: Hinterland Blues (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Was only new to the game in 2023 but took on a key role in the midfield by learning and bettering her game each week. Provided stability and flair for her side throughout the season.
Erin O‘Beirne
Club: Hinterland Blues (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Wing/Midfield
Comments: Another first year player for the Blues that started her campaign out wide before shifting into the middle and stepping up to another level. Unfortunately she injured herself late on in the season but looks like a talented footballer on the rise.
Rachel Crack
Club: Caloundra Panthers (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Is a former QAFLW player that has slotted into the Panthers side as women‘s captain. Is a strong, athletic player on the ball, has a fierce on-field attitude and a non-stop workrate.
Jesse McMillan
Club: Caloundra Panthers (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Forward
Comments: The youngster has found herself in a key full forward role this season and has proved vital for the Panthers attack. Early season performances caught the eyes of the Maroochydore Roos QAFLW side where she stepped in for a few games this season. Is great under the high-ball with a strong lead, strong overhead mark and a great kick.
Kelly Woods
Club: Caloundra Panthers (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Half Forward/Wing
Comments: Is an elite runner that creates plenty of space and opportunities for her teammates. Can cut in when needed and score goals with ease.
Lillianne Chambers
Club: Gympie Cats (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Midfield
Comments: The Cats inaugural women‘s captain was a constant threat this season, commanding plenty of respect from her teammates and the opposition. Is a great leader, has a high footy IQ and provides plenty of stability for her side.
Jasmine Sternberg
Club: Gympie Cats (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Ruck Rover
Comments: Is just an absolute warhorse with a strong skill set to suit. The proud mother of four never stops running and never stops competing for the footy.
Poppy Ball
Club: Northshore Jets (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Centre Half Back
Comments: In only her first season of senior club footy, Ball was a standout performer for the Jets all season. Can kick off both feet, creates good space for her teammates and is an uncompromising defender.
Michelle Gripske
Club: Northshore Jets (QFAW Division 2)
Position: Midfield
Comments: Is one of the older players in the side but is still a clear top player and crucial leader. Can keep running all game, knocks up great possession numbers each match, is fearless in defence and a great team player.
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