Geelong the best country town as others shine in the list
Country sporting heroes hold a unique place in the hearts of Aussie fans. We’ve now rated the Victorian regional cities and towns which have the proudest sporting heritage. Did we get it right?
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Everyone is proud of where they come from, whether it is from the remote places of Victoria to the hustle and bustle of the city.
But which country town is the best for producing sport stars?
We’ve compiled the top 20 cities by population in regional Victoria and then assessed the sporting talent to come from each.
From there each town has been given a ranking to decide which area is the best.
The criteria for the ranking is simple, the town which produce the best sporting talent from multiple sports is ranked high.
One’s who produce sporting talent with a low population base are also rated higher as the chances of them creating stars are lower than other areas with higher population bases.
So who came out on top?
We reveal the top 20 towns and cities for producing sporting talent in country Victoria.
1. Geelong
Neighbouring towns: Torquay, Jan Juc, Barwon Heads, Lorne, Drysdale, Leopold, Inverleigh, Portarlington, Bannockburn
Population (approx.): 330,000
Overview: The second largest city in Victoria, behind Melbourne, and continues to grow. Originally a gold rush city, it was behind Ballarat in terms of size before overtaking it in 1936. A city known for it’s culture, arts, sport and night life it is also known for its produce and its industry. Manufacturing and innovation, in certain sectors, has allowed Geelong to have one of the highest employment rates in regional Australia. When it comes to sport, it punches above it’s weight matching it with capital cities across the country. It has its own AFL team and has a major presence in soccer, cricket, netball and other sports. A leader of regional areas.
Most notable names: Katherine Allen (Triathlon), Sandy Blythe (Wheelchair Basketball), Sarah Bowen (Paralympic Swimming), Kelsey Browne (netball), Madison Browne (netball), Richard Colman (para athletics), Nathan Deakes (walking), Bev Francis (bodybuilding), Jessica Gallagher (Winter Paralympics), Dick Harrard (wrestling), Russell Mockridge (cycling), Simone McKinnis (netball), Trudy McIntosh (gymnastics), Graeme Lloyd (baseball), Eddie Krncevic (soccer), Cameron Johnston (American football), Steve Horvat (soccer), George Hanlon (horse racing), Matthew Spiranovic (soccer), Bridgette Starr (soccer), Tony Stahan (surf live saving), Lindsay Hassett (cricket), John Landy (athletics), Ian Redpath (cricket),, Scott Lucas (footy), Gary Ablett Jr (footy), Jimmy Bartel (footy), Cameron Ling (footy), Patrick Dangerfield (footy), Matthew Scarlett (footy), George Todd (footy), Sam Newman (footy), Tom Wills (footy).
Historic moment: Some of the first matches in the VFL/AFL were held in Geelong with the Cats involved in the first season in 1897. Geelong has also hosted at Kardinia Park the Matildas in women’s soccer internationals and has also the Big Bash and a T20 international in cricket between Australia and Sri Lanka. Kardinia Park has also hosted First Class matches involving Victoria against other states. It also played host to the 1981 first class match between Victoria and India with Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev playing.
Strongest sports: AFL, soccer, cricket
Stars of the future
Mia Gross: Likely to compete in her first Olympics next year in sprinting. Gross won bronze in the 4x100m relay at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and is a former junior Australian champion in the 100m and 200m.
Jakara Anthony: One of the best freestyle skier’s in the world. Anthony last year won the moguls event at the Beijing Games and has also finished second in the World Championships in 2019.
2.Ballarat
Neighbouring towns: Beaufort, Clunes, Creswick, Daylesford, Buninyong, Bungaree,
Population (approx.): 140,000
Overview: The third largest city in Victoria was once one of the leading centres in the state, especially during the Gold Rush in the 1850s. At times it led the state and had the most influence, while also being significant in major events including the Eureka Stockade. In recent years manufacturing has been the major economic drive of the city as well as agriculture but it isn’t a high as other regional areas around the state.
Most notable names: Steve Moneghetti (athletics), Tony Lockett (footy), Mick Malthouse (footy), Robyn Maher (basketball), Percy Beames (cricket/footy), Jared Tallent (walking), John Northey (footy), Ray Borner (basketball), Michelle Payne (horse racing), Russell Mark (shooting), John Birt (footy), Danny Frawley (footy), Brian Goorjian (basketball).
Historic moments: The first baseball game in Australia took place in Ballarat in the 1850s when American miners played the game while searching for gold. Ballarat has also hosted AFL matches, Big Bash matches and A-League matches. The city has also hosted a World Cup cricket match with England taking on Sri Lanka in 1992 at Eastern Oval. Ballarat has also played host to the Olympics, hosting all the rowing events at the 1956 Games in Melbourne.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, basketball
Stars of the future
Josh Gibcus: The Richmond defender has played 18 games in the AFL but missed last year with a hamstring injury
Ned Renfree: Renfree has represented Victoria in under-18 basketball and has been selected for Australia too. But he’s also a talented footballer in AFL, playing for St Patrick’s College in the Herald Sun Shield and the Greater Western Victoria Rebels in the Coates Talent League. He has big decisions coming up in the future.
3. Albury-Wodonga
Neighbouring towns: Barnawartha, Chiltern, Thurgoona, Lavington
Population (approx.): 100,000
Overview: The border towns have a rich history of producing sporting stars on a national and international scale. Both have major manufacturing sectors with both also known for making plenty of produce. Some of the largest production companies are in the cities with Petcare, Visy, Wilson Transformer Company and at one stage it made gearboxes for various manufacturers including Ford, Holden and Maserati. Albury Wodonga has played a major role in sport, providing stars for multiple sports.
Most notable names: Lou D’Alpuget (rugby league), Fraser Gehrig (footy), Josh Kennedy (soccer), Tristan Knowles (wheelchair basketball), Scott Martin (athletics), Brad Jones (V8 Supercars), Andrew McDonald (cricket), Lakeisha Patterson (para swimming), Jack Ziebell (footy), Jim Armstrong (wrestling), Haydn Bunton Sr (AFL), Amy Chapman (soccer), Margaret Court (tennis), Jack Crawford (tennis), Dianne Fromholtz (tennis), Lauren Jackson (basketball), Steve Kettner (weightlifting), Lyn Lillecrapp (para swimming), Bob Mark (tennis), Greg Pollard (squash), David Reynolds (motorsport), Steve Rixon (cricket), Archie Thompson (soccer), Dylan Edwards (rugby league).
Historic moment: The only regional town on the list to host A-League, rugby league, Big Bash and AFL pre-season matches. It’s also hosted Sheffield Shield matches and New South Wales taking on England in Albury in 1991. A year later the ground saw Zimbabwe stun England in the World Cup with a match held at the venue.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, basketball
Stars of the future
Oliver Hollands: On his way to being a leading AFL player. The wingman was drafted to Carlton and played 19 games in his first season.
Meg Harris: A rising star in the sport of swimming and already an Order of Australia Merit winner for her services to swimming. Harris is part of the women’s 4x100 freestyle team who won gold at the Olympics in Tokyo and the World Championships this year in Fukuoka.
4. Bendigo
Neighbouring towns: Eaglehawk, Heathcote, Huntly, Marong, Maiden Gully,
Population (approx.): 130,000
Overview: Another gold rush town which soared during the 1850s. Despite a decline afterwards the city grew through manufacturing. It is now known as a health hub and has the fifth largest bank in Australia – Bendigo Bank. In the sporting arena, it has shined producing some of the best players to ever play cricket and AFL.
Most notable names: Glenn Ashby (sailing), Joyce Bath (cricket), Don Blackie (cricket), Robert Burns (cycling), Mat Campbell (basketball), Ian Chapman (cycling), Charlie Clymo (footy), Duane Cousins (walking), Nick Dal Santo (footy), Des Guguid (boxing), Fred Elliott (footy), Hannah Every-Hall (rowing), Colin Fitzgerald (cycling), Geoff Grenfell (shooting), Jack Haig (cycling), Krisiti Harrower (basketball), Lucas Herbert (golf), Stephen Huss (tennis), Faith Leech (swimming),Dan Minogue (footy), Billy Murdoch (cricket), Ian Nankervis (footy), Glen Saville (basketball), Joel Selwood (footy), Don Sherman (lawn bowls), Geoff Southby (footy), Harry Trott (cricket), Greg Williams (footy).
Historic moment: Queen Elizabeth Oval is not only one of the prettiest oval’s in regional Victoria but it has hosted a lot of events. It hosted two World Series Cricket matches in 1977 and 1979 and also a women’s test between Australia and England in 1985. The ground has also hosted Pakistan, England, South Africa, New Zealand and the West Indies in first class matches throughout its life.
Strongest sports: AFL, basketball, cricket
Stars of the future
Dyson Daniels: Daniels is a basketball star on the rise after being drafted to New Orleans and making his debut in the NBA last season. The Pelican has already represented Australia at senior level and won gold with the under-15 team at the Oceania championships in 2018.
Jenna Strauch: One of the best female breaststroke swimmers in the world . Strauch won silver in the 200m breaststroke at the Commonwealth Games and the World Championships last year. Th
5. Warragul/Drouin
Neighbouring towns: Yarragon, Neerim South, Nilma, Darnum, Longwarry, Bunyip
Population (approx.): 45,000
Overview: Just over 100km away from Melbourne, the two cities of Warragul and Drouin are quite close and have plenty of history. Both are home to dairy farming with the main ingredients for Peter’s ice-cream created in the area. Drouin was also known in its early years for being a major timber exporter but it has declined in recent years. The two towns have produced quality sportsmen over the years as well.
Most notable names: Carji Greeves (footy), Alan Noonan (footy), Billy Roberts (footy), Lionel Rose (boxing), Tom Papley (AFL) Dean Vickerman (basketball), Jayden Warn (wheelchair rugby), Gary Ayres (footy), Harry McKay (AFL), Jason Bargwanna (motorsport), Gary Ablett Sr (footy), Peter Knights (AFL), Dale Thomas (footy).
Historic moment: The first professional fight for renowned boxer Lionel Rose was held in his home town of Warragul in 1964. His first win, against Italian Mario Magriss, was the first of many in his career.
Strongest sports: AFL, basketball, boxing
Stars of the future
Caleb Serong: The Fremantle midfielder is starting to become one of the best players in the game. Last season was a breakout year for Serong, winning the best and fairest at the Dockers and making the All Australian team.
Lachlan Smith: The ruckman joined the Western Bulldogs this year in the AFL draft after impressing for the Gippsland Power. Smith is one to look out for in the future with plenty of improvement expected over the next few years.
6. Traralgon/Morwell
Neighbouring towns: Glengarry, Traralgon South
Population (approx.): 42,000
Overview: Originally a farming city, Traralgon in recent years has boomed off the back of coal mining, power plants and now mining for oil and natural gas. It also is a major player in the forestry industry. Traralgon and Morwell is one of the areas of growth in the Gippsland area and has produced plenty of sporting talent over the years.
Most notable names: Paul Morris (motorsport), Jack Scott (footy), Emily Beecroft (para swimming), Bryan Quirk (AFL) Neil Cordy (footy), Kevin Curran (footy), Brendon Goddard (footy), Kristin Godridge (tennis), Fran Hammond (basketball), Troy Luff (footy), Vin Waite (AFL), Jenna O’Hea (basketball), Peter Siddle (cricket), Kelvin Templeton (footy), Michael Voss (footy), Bernie Quinlan (footy).
Historic moment: Traralgon’s football team, the Maroons, played Essendon twice in the 1880s beating them in 1886 by 37 points. Former World Number 1 and tennis champion Ash Barty won a professional title in Traralgon in 2012. It was the fourth title of her career and the success led to her becoming a multiple grand slam champion.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, basketball
Stars of the future
Changkuoth Jiath: A defender on the rise for Hawthorn. He’s played 45 games and is starting to become a valuable member of the Hawks. He moved to Morwell when he was a young boy after his parents, who are South Sudanese, moved from Africa to Australia.
Tew Jiath: The younger brother of Changkuoth will be at Collingwood next year after being drafted by the Pies.
Nicole Maria Faltum: Could be the next wicketkeeper for Australia after Alyssa Healy retires. Faltum currently plays for Victoria and played for Australia A last year.
Ruby Storm: Watch out for her next year at the Paralympics. The 20-year-old has already won medals at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021, winning bronze in the 100m butterfly in the S14 class.
7. Castlemaine
Neighbouring towns: Campbells Creek, Maldon, Harcourt, Newstead, Chewton,
Population (approx.): 12,000
Overview: A major gold mining town who was one of the founding fathers of AFL in the state with one of the oldest clubs formed in the city. While the city has declined in recent years as work opportunities disappeared the area has continued to produce sporting stars, including some of the best ever in the AFL. A historic city which has punched above their weight.
Most notable names: Ron Barassi (AFL), Frank Laver (baseball/cricket), Dustin Martin (AFL), Harvey Sutton (athletics), Ned Sutton (AFL), Ray Titus (AFL), Sean Finning (cycling), Ron Barassi Sr (AFL), Carla Krizanic (lawn bowls)
Historic moment: There are two for the city. The first is having Australia’s second oldest football club, the Castlemaine Magpies which formed just after the Melbourne Football Club (VFL) in 1859. The other is the town was the first to defeat an England team in Australia. In 1862 a touring XI from England faced Castlemaine who had 22 players to pick from. After England made 80 in their first innings, Castlemaine responded with 21-54 before bowling England out for 68 in their second dig. Castlemaine made the target of 96 to create history with the three wicket win.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, mountain biking
8. Warrnambool
Neighbouring towns: Port Fairy, Allansford, Dennington, Koroit, Terang, Mortlake,
Population (approx.): 50,000
Overview: Settled in the 1830s, Warrnambool, like many other areas, grew when the gold rush hit. In recent years the area has grown through it’s tourism, it’s agriculture and it’s dairy industry. The Great Ocean Road, in particular, attracts thousands of people. A strong area with football, Warrnambool also is a major player in Speedway and horse racing.
Most notable names: Jonathan Brown (AFL), Ciaron Maher (horse racing), Alec Albiston (AFL), Lawrence Austin (boxing), Paul Couch (AFL), Michelle Ferris (cycling), Marc Leishman (golf), Jordan Lewis (AFL), Matt McGuire (AFL), Hugh McLean (AFL/cricket), Colin Watson (AFL), Michael Turner (AFL), Nathan Sobey (basketball), Christian Ryan (rowing), Kathryn Ross (rowing), Madi Ratcliffe (hockey), Kerryn Peterson (AFL), Ned Officer (AFL)
Historic moment: Warrnambool is home to two significant sporting events, the Grand Annual and the Sprintcar Classic. The Sprintcar Classic is one of Australia’s biggest Speedway races meets and turned 50 this year. The Grand Annual is the longest race in horse racing, running over 5500m and over 33 jumps. The event is held every year in May.
Strongest sports: Speedway, AFL, horse racing
Stars of the future
Luamon Lual: The new Essendon defender comes to the club after impressing for Greater Western Victoria Rebels in the Coates Talent League.
George Stevens: The young midfielder joined Geelong after playing for Greater Victoria Rebels in the Coates Talent League.
9. Mildura
Neighbouring towns: Merbein, Red Cliffs, Irymple, Wentworth, Gol Gol, Robinvale, Murrayville, Ouyen
Population (approx.): 60,000
Overview: Victoria’s most populous northern city, Mildura is a tourism hot spot, which also produces quality produce in the state. It makes up 80 per cent of grapes grown in the state and is also a major citrus producer. A city which continues to grow and be a major centre right on the Murray River.
Most notable names: Leigh Adams (motorsport), Jason Akermanis (AFL), Lance Arnold (AFL), Adam Bland (golf), Mark Cleary (cricket), Matthew Croft (AFL), Phil Crump (motorsport), Rick Kelly (motorsport), Melissa Hickey (AFL), Todd Kelly (motorsport), Matthew Knights (AFL), Mark Lee (AFL), Ben McGlynn (AFL), Bruce Murray (cricket/AFL), Colin Sylvia (AFL), Chris Tarrant (AFL), Cameron Waters (motorsport), Dale Weightman (AFL)
Historic moment: Mildura not only hosted two World Series cricket warm-up matches but the area hosted five matches in the youth World Cup in 1988. The likes of Mike Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Brian Lara, Jimmy Adams, Stuart Law, Darren Berry, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Sanath Jayasuriya all played.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, motorsport
Star of the future
Dylan Stephens: The new North Melbourne recruit has already played 43 AFL games for Sydney including the 2022 grand final.
10. Shepparton
Neighbouring towns: Mooroopna, Tatura, Kialla, Tallygaroopna, Kyabram, Nurmurkah
Population (approx.): 75,000
Overview:
Most notable names: Steele Sidebottom (AFL), Michael Barlow (AFL), Aiden Blizzard (cricket), Francis Bourke (AFL), Charlie Canet (AFL), Jarmen Impey (AFL), Alex Keath (cricket), Steven King (AFL), Brett Lancaster (cycling), Vince Lia (football), Jarrod Lyle (golf), Peter Maynard (AFL), Adem Yze (AFL), David Wirrpanda (AFL), Raelee Thompson (cricket), Gordon Ratray (AFL), Lee Naylor (athletics), Cortnee Vine (football)
Historic moment: Shepparton has hosted Marylebone Cricket Club (England) at Deakin Reserve when the side took on a Victoria Country team in 1962. The England side won by six wickets. Almost five decades later the same ground would host a Marsh Cup match between Victoria and Western Australia. Test players Chris Rogers, Shaun Marsh, Adam Voges, Marcus North, Brad Hogg, Sean Ervine, Andrew McDonald, Brad Hodge, Cameron White and Rob Quiney all played.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, BMX
Stars of the future
Garang Kuol: One of the next big talents in Australian football. Kuol joined Premier League side Newcastle United this year after impressing for the Central Coast Mariners in their title winning season in the A-League. The forward has already played five games for Australia, at 19, and played in last year’s World Cup.
Josh Rachele: Has played 34 games for Adelaide in just two seasons in the AFL. Rachele is an exciting small forward who knows how to find a goal.
11. Wangaratta
Neighbouring towns: Beechworth, Glenrowan, Moyhu
Population (approx.): 30,000
Overview: After being founded in the 1830s the area grew in the following 30 years with the gold rush. Wangaratta became one of the largest cities in the area and has grown over the years to be the largest city. The city today is home to plenty of wine and food produce and is also known for its textile production.
Most notable names: Rebecca Allen (basketball), Glenn Clarke (cyclist), Alipate Carlisle (AFL), Belinda Hocking (swimming), James Hoggan (athletics), Steve Johnson (AFL), Percy Jones (AFL), Nick Morris (basketball), Dean Woods (cyclists), Darcy Vescio (AFL), Ben Reid (AFL), Sam Reid (AFL), Lance Oswald (AFL), Matthew Lappin (AFL)
Historic moment: In 1900, the Wangaratta Magpies played Collingwood in a match during the VFL season. Collingwood ran out 70-point winners. Wangaratta has also hosted a List A match between Victoria and New South Wales in 2006 and has hosted two first class matches, one against the West Indies in 1996-97 and one against Queensland in 1986-87.
Strongest sports: AFL, basketball, cricket
Stars of the future:
Darcy Wilson: The Murray Bushranger joined St Kilda in this year’s AFL draft and is already impressing at the club. A midfielder who is known for his running. E
Zarlie Goldsworthy: The AFLW player is already a best and fairest at her club despite being 19. Goldsworthy won the GWS best and fairest this season and at 19 is one of the rising stars of the game.
12. Horsham
Neighbouring towns: Haven, Minyip, Murtoa, Rupanyup, Pimpinio,
Population (approx.): 20,000
Overview: One of the major towns on the way from Adelaide to Melbourne, in fact it is almost halfway between both capital cities. Horsham is well known for its agricultural produce, making up 60 per cent of exports in the state in grain, pulse and oilseed. The city also has a strong sporting presence with their football teams the most dominant in the Wimmera league.
Most notable names: Adam Goodes (AFL), Billy Pyers (horse racing), Jannik Blair (basketball), Shaun Bruce (basketball), Mitch Creek (basketball), Jane Flemming (athletics), Doug Wade (AFL), Craig Scholl (AFL), Brad Scholl (AFL), Shane Heard (AFL), Adrian Hickmott (AFL), Jake Lloyd (AFL), Jason Niblett (cycling)
Historic Historic moment: The Horsham Demons hold the record for the most premierships won in a row in country football in Victoria. The team won 10 premierships in a row from 2003 to 2012.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, tennis
Stars of the future
Joel Freijah: The midfielder has joined the Western Bulldogs after impressing for the Greater Western Victoria Rebels in the Coates Talent League. A winger who is capable of running all day.
13. Echuca-Moama
Neighbouring towns: Tongala, Lockington, Bamawn
Population (approx.): 22,000
Overview: The paddle steamer capital of the world, which at one stage was one of the boomtowns in the state as it was Victoria’s largest inland port. Nowadays it is known for its tourism and being a destination spot for water-based activities. The town has also been known to produce talented sportspeople.
Most notable names: Michael Braun (AFL), Donna Burns (basketball), Bert Foster (AFL), Jack Mueller (AFL), Caitlyn Nevins (netball), Clayton Oliver (AFL), Kevin O’Neill (AFL), Andrew Walker (AFL), Oliver Wines (AFL), Brett Sands (water ski), Joanne Hamilton (water ski), Gwenda Johnstone (horse racing)
Strongest sports: AFL, water ski, cycling, rowing
Stars of the future
Todd Murphy: The next spin king of Australian cricket when Nathan Lyon retires. Murphy has already represented Australia and was impressive under plenty of pressure in India and England for the Ashes. At just 23, he’s got a big future in the game.
Harley Reid: The number one draft pick at this year’s AFL draft. Reid will play for West Coast next year. A midfielder who is already AFL ready despite being just 18. Plays a lot like Dustin Martin and knows how to win the ball, break plays and fend off defenders.
Col Pearse: Already a Commonwealth Games gold medallist and one to look out for at next year’s Paralympics in Paris. The butterfly swimmer won bronze at the Tokyo Paralympics in the 100m in the S10 class before taking out gold in the same event in Birmingham a year later at the Games.
14. Sale
Neighbouring towns: Maffra, Longford, Stratford, Rosedale, Heyfield
Population (approx.): 25,000
Overview: A port town, which in recent years has been known for its oil exports. Sale is a town on the Gippsland famous for its art and heritage, which stretches over 150 years. In the sporting scene, the Sale Magpies are the oldest club in the Gippsland league, after being formed in 1877. It is also one of the most successful clubs and has produced some of the best AFL players in history.
Most notable names: Scott Pendlebury (AFL), Ashley Delaney (swimming), Pauline Frasca (rowing), Peta Mullens (cycling), Stewart McLatchie (AFL), John McCorkell (AFL), Hugh James (AFL), Scott Robertson (diving), Ian Schuback (lawn bowls), John Townsend (AFL), Vic Trood (AFL), Norman Ware (AFL), Travis Birt (cricket), Rhys Carter (basketball)
Historic moment: Sale hosted Sri Lanka in a first class match in 1989, in one of the nations first few matches as a playing nation. It was Sri Lanka’s first full tour of Australia after playing their first test in Australia the year before in 1988.
Strongest sports: AFL, basketball, cricket
Stars of the future
Ash Centra: Expect Centra to be drafted in the AFL women’s competition next year. The Gippsland Power midfielder was the MVP for Victoria Country at this year’s under-18 national title.
Zali Gallagher: Another Gippsland Power young gun who is also a surf life saving rising star. At this year’s state titles the teenager won the under-17 women’s beach sprint and beach flags.
15. Bacchus Marsh
Neighbouring towns: Darley, Gisborne, Maddingley, Ballan, Gordon
Population (approx.): 30,000
Overview: Known for its fruit and vegetable growing, Bacchus Marsh has become the hub between Ballarat and Melbourne. In some ways it has become part of Melbourne with the urban sprawl of the capital city moving further west.
Most notable names: Zak Butters (AFL), Alfred Carlton (AFL), John Carlton (cricket), Doug Hawkins (AFL), Jack Jenkins (MMA), Heath Scotland (AFL), Keith Shea (AFL), Harry Vallence (AFL), Marcus Whelan (AFL), Fred Wooller (AFL), Liam Duggan (AFL)
Historic moment: Famous motorbike stunt rider Robbie Madison had his first freestyle motocross win at Bacchus Marsh, which was the first event he ever competed in.
Strongest sports: AFL, Gliding, Cricket
Stars of the future
Aaron Cadman: The number one draft pick of the 2022 draft made his debut for GWS this year, kicking six goals in 12 games. A tall forward who has been compared to GWS and Geelong great Jeremy Cameron, big things are expected of Cadman.
Tamara Henry: Was recruited to Adelaide the AFL women’s draft recently. The Western Jet helped Darley to win this year’s Ballarat women’s league title.
16. Colac
Neighbouring towns: Irrewarra, Elliminyt, Birregurra
Population (approx.): 13,000
Overview: One of the oldest towns in the state with lots of heritage, linked back to Geelong, which is the closest major town. Colac has produced quality AFL and cricket players. Lake Colac has also been pivotal to sport with rowing and yachting held there and some of the oldest clubs formed in the state in both sports.
Most notable names: Norma Wilson (cricket), John Devine (AFL), Aaron Finch (cricket), Luke Hodge (AFL), Peter Foster (AFL), Paul McKenzie (sailing), Craig Spence (golf)
Historic moment: It was one of only a handful of places in the world which hosted an ultra-marathon. Started in 1984 after nearby resident Cliff Young won the Sydney to Melbourne marathon, a similar event was created in Colac. The event saw competitors run 1000km over six days with the event held for 20 years before it stopped in 2004 after 20 years of being held.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, rowing, yachting
Stars of the future
Aanliya Cheeran: The junior cricketer at just 18 is already representing Victoria, playing her first match this year against Queensland. The all-rounder is currently playing for Geelong in Premier Cricket.
Brady Hall: The Geelong Falcons player has already played for Vic Country in the under-16s and was named in the All Australian team in 2022. He played Coates Talent League football this year and could be a name to look out for in next year’s draft. Hall is also a talented basketballer.
17. Moe/Newborough
Neighbouring towns: Trafalgar, Thorpdale, Yallourn North
Population (approx.): 16,000
Overview: A coal town which has struggled in recent years for growth. It’s a town located in the centre of the Gippsland region and is near the Baw Baw and Strzelecki Ranges. It has a big sporting scene with plenty of attractions catering to a wide range of sports.
Most notable names: Jason Bright (motorsport), Jarrod Fletcher (boxing), Anne Gordon (cricket), Teagan Micah (soccer), Ashlee Wells (hockey), Peter Reville (AFL), Barry Rowlings (AFL), Peter Somerville (AFL).
Historic moment of note: One of only a handful of regional centres in Victoria to host a Big Bash and a women’s Big Bash match.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, basketball
Stars of the future
Bailey Humphrey: A top-six draft pick who went to Gold Coast in the AFL. A dangerous forward, who can also play in the midfield, Humphrey made 19 appearances in his first season at the club and kicked 11 goals.
Jaz Shelley: Has already represented Australia in basketball and is a three-time gold medallist for her country at junior level. Shelley has played NCAA basketball overseas for the past four years, firstly with Oregon, before moving to Nebraska.
18. Bairnsdale
Neighbouring towns: Paynesville, Lucknow, Wy Yung, Lindenow
Population (approx.): 15,000
Overview: A major port town during the gold rush, which has now developed into one of the largest cities in East Gippsland and is famous for its agriculture. Bairnsdale has plenty of history with sport with the Bairnsdale Redlegs one of the oldest clubs in the state and famously taking on Essendon in their first match.
Most notable names: Daniel McConnell (cycling), Tom Alvin (AFL), Harry Lambert (cricket/AFL), Cameron White (cricket), Bob Edmond (weightlifting), Charlotte McShane (triathlon), Bruce Morrison (AFL), Bill Potter (AFL), Brian Royal (AFL).
Star of the future
Paige Barr: The rower will represent Australia at the upcoming Paris Olympics after a stellar season this year. She won silver with the eights team at the 2023 World Championships in Belgrade and has won back-to-back Queen’s Cup, in eights, with Victoria at the Australian Championships.
19. Swan Hill
Neighbouring towns: Tyntynder, Lake Boga, Woorinen, Nyah, Nyah West
Population (approx.): 15,000
Overview: Nestled along the Murray River, Swan Hill is on the border of Victoria and New South Wales. A town notable for its footy but it has produced athletes in other sports, which aren’t in the mainstream. It’s a town which might not be large in terms of sporting talent, but it has produced over the past few decades.
Most notable names: Kevin Coombs (basketball), Fred Flanagan (AFL), Tessa Lavey (basketball/AFL), Dale Lewis (AFL), Margie Masters (golf), Brendan McCartney (AFL), Glenn O’Shea (cycling), Ross Smith (badminton), Ian Borchard (AFL), Geoff Raines (AFL)
Historic moment: For a period of time current world number one tennis player Novak Djokovic was the honorary mayor of Swan Hill. In 2016, the tennis club selected Djokovic as part of a promotion where tennis clubs across the country were given players to cheer on for during the Australian Open. Djokovic ended up winning the Australian Open that year.
Strongest sports: AFL, cricket, speedway
20. Portland
Neighbouring towns: Heywood, Tyrendarra
Population (approx.): 12,000
Overview: Victoria’s oldest settlement has had a valuable contribution to sport in the state despite its geographical disadvantage. It’s the state’s largest town away from Melbourne to the west and in some sporting competitions it plays matches 100s of kilometres away. The city has a netball and football team competing in the Hampden league, and also has a cricket competition. Portland also has a speedway, karting and BMX track for extreme sports.
Most notable names: Ian Hampshire (AFL), Rowan Marshall (AFL), Clyde Laidlaw (AFL), Stuart Spencer (AFL), Luke Bell (triathlon), Jo King (Ironwoman), Samuel Parker (wrestling)
Strongest sports: Footy, cricket, triathlon
Stars of the future
Jessica Rentsch: The Greater Western Victoria Rebel was recently selected by West Coast in the AFLW Draft and will now play under Daisy Pearce.
Jamieson Ballantyne: Played a couple of games for the Footscray Bulldogs in the VFL this season and is a former Greater Western Victorian Rebel.
Footy festival: The chance for Victoria to celebrate footy like never before
A third major Victorian football league has made the move to hold their showpiece event the day before the AFL grand final. Now SHANE JONES argues others should follow suit to create a statewide footy festa.
The country footy teams with plenty to prove in 2025
The 2025 country footy season is shaping as a thriller. We profile the clubs with something to prove across Victoria.