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Josh Barnes is an AFL and sport reporter with News Sport and CODE Sports, who has previously worked as the Geelong Advertiser’s Chief Footy Writer and with Leader Newspapers.

@Josh__Barnes

Josh Barnes

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AnalysisAFLW

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NOVEMBER 30: Jenna Bruton, Ash Riddell and Jasmine Garner of the Kangaroos celebrate during the AFLW Grand Final match between North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos and Brisbane Lions at Ikon Park, on November 30, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Inside story: How North built AFLW’s greatest list

When North Melbourne entered the AFLW, they didn’t pull their punches in the recruiting space. JOSH BARNES looks at how the Roos planted the seeds for an undefeated premiership season.

AFL

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 27: Will Hoare of the Bombers in action during the 2024 VFL Round 05 match between Collingwood and Essendon at Victoria Park on April 27, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Rob Lawson/AFL Photos)

VFL stars earns AFL audition at Bombers

One of Essendon’s top VFL prospects has been given the chance to press his claims to join the club’s AFL list. Get the latest SSP news here.

AFL

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 15: Ash Riddell of the Kangaroos celebrates kicking a goal during the round three AFLW match between Melbourne Demons and North Melbourne Kangaroos at Casey Fields, on September 15, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

All class: Roos ball magnet Riddell builds her own fan base

Grand Final week is supposed to be all about the spotlight. But, North Melbourne star Ash Riddell’s approach is much more low key than most — and, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

AFL

HOBART, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 10: Oscar Allen of the Eagles celebrates a goal during the round 22 AFL match between North Melbourne Kangaroos and West Coast Eagles at Blundstone Arena, on August 10, 2024, in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Steve Bell/Getty Images)

Balta, Fogarty mega deals set high price in barren tall market

The long-term deals signed by Darcy Fogarty and Noah Balta have set the standard in the key-position market, with clubs likely to need six or seven-year offers to keep their stars around.

AFL

Dean Cox has taken over from John Longmire.

Swans address Longmire bombshell, lock in successor

John Longmire is out as Sydney coach, ending his 15-year tenure in charge of the Swans. And, the 2024 grand finalists have moved quickly to lock in his replacement.

AFL

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - OCTOBER 05: Jasmine Garner of the Kangaroos celebrates a goal during the round six AFLW match between North Melbourne Kangaroos and Western Bulldogs at Arden Street Ground, on October 05, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Snubbed…again: The curious case of Jasmine Garner

Every person at the W Awards was hoping Jasmine Garner would get belated recognition from the umpires, a feeling that bubbled over midway through the night. But again, she was left disappointed. JOSH BARNES examines why.

AFL

New recruit Jake Stringer during the GWS Giants first session back for 2-4 year players. Photo by Phil Hillyard (Image Supplied for Editorial Use only - **NO ON SALES** - Â©Phil Hillyard )

Track watch: Stringer signals Giant intent, Cats return minus Smith

Jake Stringer was among a host of senior Giants to make an early return to pre-season, but the same can’t be said for Bailey Smith at his new club Geelong. Get the latest pre-season notes here.

AFL News

Revealed: Dons, Suns hold power in AFL trading’s new era

Critics of Essendon’s pick nine trade with Melbourne — prepare to eat humble pie. As JOSH BARNES reports, the Bombers are set to wield a powerful hand in 2025. And, they’re not alone.

AFL

‘Absolute blunder’: Essendon’s ‘staggering’ draft move smashed

The Bombers had a relatively quiet trade period by their standards, instead focusing on Isaac Kako. But after securing the small forward, their method has been whacked by a draft expert.

AFL

Tiger delight as North pays heavy price in last-minute draft stunner

On a night where little caused a surprise, North Melbourne waited until the last moment to pull a stunner, paying a significant price and taking an even more significant risk.

Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/journalists/josh-barnes/page/5