Maryborough Magpies to enter recess for season 2025

One of country Victoria’s most famous footy clubs, which was the home of Carlton legend John Nicholls, has made a stunning decision on its playing future.

Maryborough Magpies will enter recess in 2025. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

For the first time in 33 years Maryborough won’t be fielding senior sides in the Bendigo Football League after making the heart-breaking decision to fall into recess in 2025.

The Magpies currently own the longest losing streak in country footy, at 64 games, and suffered the biggest ever loss in competition history this year, beaten by Sandhurst by 333 points.

Maryborough has had many famous footballing products throughout its 100-year history including Carlton legend John Nicholls, former Brisbane captain Jed Adcock and former Essendon and Western Bulldogs forward Stewart Crameri.

The Magpies were forced to field players from other teams to fill senior sides in 2024 and made a decision to withdraw their reserves teams during the year.

The situation worsened post season as players from this year’s side opted to move elsewhere.

Maryborough’s Kya Lanfranchi takes a mark in a game earlier this season. Picture Yuri Kouzmin

“By taking a step back in 2025, we can focus on strengthening our foundations, recruiting, and planning a sustainable future for our club,” Maryborough president Scott Quinlan said.

“Our goal is to return in 2026 with renewed energy and commitment.

“We want to assure our loyal members, supporters, and the wider community that this decision is not the end for Maryborough Football Netball Club.”

The move has the support of the Bendigo league.

“The BFNL support the decision of the Maryborough FNC to enter into recess for the 2025 season and while we understand this is disappointing news for many within the

Maryborough community, the BFNL are committed to supporting the Club where possible to ensure that 2026 will be a successful return for the Maryborough Magpies,” BFNL chair Carol McKinstry said.

The move now leaves the Bendigo league with just eight teams for 2025, however Broadford has applied to join the competition in either 2025 or 2026.

While the Magpies won’t field senior teams in football and netball its junior teams will still be competing in the Bendigo Junior Football League.