Our country footy hidden gems of season 2024
Country footy is full of cult heroes and gun players who don’t always get the recognition they deserve. We’ve named our best from across the state.
The 2024 country footy season was another thriller.
Now we’ve released our guide of hidden gems from across regional Victoria.
See who made it.
Bailey Anderson, Irymple (Sunraysia)
One of the rising stars of the competition who has locked away a spot in the senior side in the last two years. A no fuss defender.
Cameron Anderson, Harcourt (MCDFNL)
Still yet to reach his peak as a footballer, Anderson put together another fine season as one of the league’s most damaging players.
Kaiden Antonowicz, White Hills (Heathcote)
Finished the year with 65 goals in 18 games as White Hills claimed the premiership.
Trent Armour, Nar Nar Goon (West Gippsland)
One of his competition’s most consistent players in recent seasons. Continued to be named among his side’s best players on the way to the flag.
Brent Arho, Tallygaroopna (Kyabram)
Impressed in his return to the Kyabram District league.
Austin Arnold, Colac Imperials (Colac and District)
One of the rising stars of the competition. In his second full season of senior footy, he was brilliant.
Bayden Ashwood, Wy Yung (East Gippsland)
An experienced member of the Tigers outfit.
Kydan Atkinson, Rumbalara (Murray)
Back at the club where he played some senior footy, Atkinson has been a standout in a Rumbalara side which has battled.
Braydon Avola, Avenel (Kyabram)
Won last year’s best and fairest in the Kyabram District league and arguably had a better season.
Blake Azzopardi, Picola United (Picola)
Was a standout for the club this season across halfback.
Jhye Baddeley-Kelly, Boort (North Central)
The former VFL player has fit right in at the Magpies after joining from North Heidelberg. The midfielder was in the best players in 13 of 15 games.
Lachlan Bambridge, Warragul Industrials (West Gippsland)
A new recruit at the start of the season, Bambridge brought plenty of firepower inside 50.
Brady Bartlett, Milawa (Ovens and King)
The ruckman was not only strong in the air but was also handy in front of goal. Bartlett kicked 34 goals in 17 games this season.
Nathan Basile, Colbinabbin (Heathcote)
The midfielder was impressive for the Hoppers after moving to the club at the start of 2024. Was among the best players in 13 games.
Sam Beasley, Cobram (Murray)
The Tigers skipper has been an impressive player over several seasons to be one of the most respected players in the competition. Controls the game across halfback for his side.
Brody Bendon, Carngham Linton (Central Highlands)
Two years ago Bendon won the under-18 goalkicking title. This year, he booted 44 in the senior side.
Kye Benson, Korumburra-Bena (West Gippsland)
While his club may have struggled during his first season, Benson brought consistency to the Giants midfield.
Darcy Berryman, Fish Creek (Mid Gippsland)
Had arguably the best year of his senior career after returning from Leongatha. Kicked 63 goals in 16 games as his side tasted premiership success.
Jake Best, Foster (Mid Gippsland)
Had a standout season with 80 goals in 17 games.
Kris Bextream, Barooga (Murray)
A senior regular since 2019 after his junior career and put together arguably his best season.
Cameron Bishop, Katunga (Picola)
One of the best players at Katunga for the past three years.
Ryan Bongart, Ballan (Central Highlands)
Was among the best players for the Blues in a tough season.
James Boyer, Congupna (Murray)
The former best-and-fairest winner was brilliant again for the premiers.
Alex Boyse, Daylesford (Central Highlands)
The key defender proved to be a more than handy recruit for the Bulldogs as they tasted premiership success.
Jarrod Brander, Wentworth (Sunraysia)
The former AFL player continued to be a major threat in front of goal with 92 for the season.
James Breen, Tallangatta (Tallangatta)
Breen kicked 76 goals in 14 games which included 30 goals in two games this season.
Joe Brooks, Mirboo North (Mid Gippsland)
The key tall was one of the best players for Mirboo North in a tough year.
Andrew Browne, Donald (North Central)
Made an immediate impact after moving from the Mininera and District league. The ruckman was in the best players in 14 of 17 games for Donald.
Hayden Bruce, Phillip Island (West Gippsland)
One of the many consistent performers for the grand finalist. The star midfielder was dynamic when he went forward.
Nate Bull, Merbein (Sunraysia)
The emerging defender continues to develop into one of the most promising keys in the competition.
Thomas Bull, Ultima (Golden Rivers)
The midfielder was among the best players in nine games.
Aron Burns, Mathoura (Picola)
Was a standout in a tough season for Mathoura.
Charlie Burrows, Waaia (Picola)
Had another fantastic season in front of goal with 87 from 19 games.
Jackson Calder, Dimboola (Wimmera)
Averaged just over four goals a season, finishing with 43 for the season.
Dylan Callard, Katamatite (Picola)
Had an influential season to consistently be among the best players for his side.
Brodhi Carracher, Cavendish (South West District)
A dominant player for the minor premiers. Carracher has averaged almost two goals a game and was in the best in 12 of 15 matches.
Dion Camera, Robinvale Euston (Sunraysia)
A consistent goalkicker this season with 27 games in 16 games.
Nathan Campbell, Nilma Darnum (Ellinbank District)
Been one of the best for the Bombers in their resurgence in the competition. Has been in the best players in 10 of 13 games.
Jack Carter, Wentworth (Sunraysia)
Since joining the club back in 2019, Carter has gone onto to become one of the most consistent players for his side.
Jack Cattanach, Hay (Golden Rivers)
The ball magnet was in the best in 14 of 17 games and averaged more than a goal a game. He had 56 disposals in one match and kicked two goals.
Zac Cerrone, Lancaster (Kyabram)
Claimed the club’s best-and-fairest in stunning fashion with 71 goals and several matchwinning performances.
Luke Cheffers, Yinnar (Mid Gippsland)
Still eligible for under-18s, the teenager impressed in senior football this season.
Tyson Clingan, Kerang (Central Murray)
One of the rising stars of the competition. Was a consistent senior player in recent years but 2024 was a career best.
Sam Clyne, Horsham Saints (Wimmera)
The former Wimmera best and fairest winner had another great season for the Saints.
Ryan Coates, Wodonga Saints (Tallangatta)
Impressed in his first season at the Saints, kicking 42 goals in 16 games.
Gareth Collinson, Gol Gol (Millewa)
Enjoyed a fine season in front of goal with 64 majors.
Lachie Constable, Lismore Derrinallum (Mininera and District)
The young gun was brilliant with 82 goals.
Junior Cooper, Bambill (Millewa)
A career best season with 39 goals in 16 games.
Kyle Cooper, Chiltern (Tallangatta)
Had another impressive season, particularly in the final series. Cooper was in the best players in 12 of 17 games and averaged 1.5 goals per game.
Sam Cox, Benalla All Blacks (Ovens and King)
Only player to have been in the best players in every single game this season. The midfielder was named in the best in 18 out of 18 games. Cox impressed in a tough season for the club.
Jack Cuttler, Lexton (MCDFNL)
A recruit who emerged as one of his side’s most important players.
Anthony Daraio, Kilcunda Bass (West Gippsland)
Picked up where he left off last season with the star forward among the leading goalkickers with 47.
Levi Dare, Alvie (Colac and District)
Has enjoyed another dominant season for the premiership contender with 13 mentions in the best.
Cody Deutscher, Harrow Balmoral (Horsham District)
Already a two-time premiership player with the club, the skilful “Rolls-Royce” returned at the start of the season from Coleraine. Loves the contest.
Jayden Dhosi, Shepparton East (Kyabram)
A move to Shepparton East did wonders for Dhosi this season as he put together one of the best years of his career.
Alex Dijkstra, Bunyip (West Gippsland)
One of many young guys who played in a Bunyip side who will now move competitions next season.
Wade Donnan, Sea Lake Nandaly (North Central)
Wade helped lift the Tigers to back-to-back premierships on his way to the league medal.
Jack Donnell, Stanhope (Kyabram)
A standout in his first season with the Lions after crossing from Lancaster.
Mark Doolan, Chiltern (Tallangatta)
He might be 40 but Doolan is still playing good footy. Kicked 64 goals in 19 games and played in a grand final.
Cody Driscoll, Stawell (Wimmera)
Impressed in his first season in the competition to be one of the leading goalkickers in the competition.
Harley Durward, St Arnaud (North Central)
The St Arnaud stalwart impressed in a tough season for the club. Held down a key post in defence.
Ben Edwards, Birchip-Watchem (North Central)
Won the competition goalkicking after reaching triple figures.
Tom Eckel, Stawell (Wimmera)
Had another good season after winning last year’s best and fairest in the competition.
Adam Enever, North Wangaratta (Ovens and King)
Was one of the best players for North Wangaratta this year. Was in the best players in 12 of 18 games.
Daniel Farmer, Woodside (North Gippsland)
The former Collingwood player had another strong year with 67 goals in 19 outings.
Jarrad Farwell, Barnawartha (Tallangatta)
Was a joint-winner of this year’s best and fairest in the league. A powerhouse midfielder who knows how to win the ball. He was in the best players in 10 of 17 games.
Cam Fendyk, Beechworth (Tallangatta)
Won back-to-back best and fairests recently in the competition. The talented midfielder knows how to win the ball and averaged almost a goal a game during the season.
Tom Ford, Waubra (Central Highlands)
A rising star of the competition who is capable of playing on some of the opposition’s best forwards.
Jye Formosa, Longwood (Kyabram)
Continued to be one of the leading midfielders in the competition.
Brodie Fry, Huntly (Heathcote)
The key defender held his own against the best forwards in the competition.
Jayden Forrest, Werrimull (Millewa)
A handy recruit who went onto be among his side’s most consistent players.
Jayden Fox, Imperial (Sunraysia)
Was a strong performer in front of goal with 58 majors for the season.
Kurt Freer, Nangiloc (Millewa)
One of the leading goalkickers in his local competition with 58 in 14 games.
Nathan Gardiner, Cora Lynn (West Gippsland)
Reached triple figures with 104 goals in 20 games.
Machok Garang, Warrack (Wimmera)
The intercept defender impressed in his first season after moving to the club from Adelaide.
Jack Geary, Cohuna Kangas (Central Murray)
Took on the coaching role with the club in 2024 and has been reappointed for next year. Was one of his side’s better players.
Mitch Gleeson, Rupanyup (Horsham District)
The dominant big man has been an imposing figure for his side since crossing from Charlton several seasons ago.
John Gooch, Lucknow (East Gippsland)
Made an instant impression at his new club after crossing from the Gippsland league.
Mitchell Goodwin, Dunolly (MCDFNL)
Enjoying another fine season. He set a personal best for goals in a season.
Matthew Gray, Maldon (MCDFNL)
A loyal servant of the footy club who is one of his competition’s most consistent players.
Brad Green, Leitchville Gunbower (Heathcote)
A new recruit at the start of the year who was one of the best for the Bombers.
Josh Gregg, Ouyen United (Sunraysia)
Returned to the club at the start of the year after a stint in South Australia and was one of his side’s best in a difficult season.
Connor Griffiths, Mulwala (Murray)
In his second season with the club and he found more consistency in his form through the middle.
Corey Grindlay, Heathcote (Heathcote)
One of the leading goalkickers in the competition with 54 for the year.
Brandyn Grenfell, NNW United (Central Murray)
The goalkicking machine found a new club in 2024 and didn’t slow down either as the competition’s leading goalkicker.
Brant Haintz, Springbank (Central Highlands)
The former Geelong VFL player had his best year at the club.
Archer Hammond, Irymple (Sunraysia)
Hammond is one of the competition’s biggest rising stars in a strong midfield group.
Samuel Handley, Wickliffe/Lake Bolac (Mininera and District)
Was brilliant all season in defence.
Robbie Hare, Allansford (Warrnambool)
Reached the magical triple figure milestone in stunning fashion to help his side play finals footy.
James Harney, Elmore (Heathcote)
Had a strong year for the club after returning, booting 57 goals.
Conor Harvey, Swifts Creek (Omeo District)
Kicked 61 goals in 18 games in a career best year.
Aiden Hayward, Omeo-Benambra (Omeo District)
A career best season with 28 goals and nine mentions in the best.
Matthew Hedin, Bonnie Doon (Ovens and King)
Won this year’s best and fairest in the Ovens and King. The midfielder was impressive this season, being in the best in 14 of 18 games and kicked 28 goals.
Tom Hedley, Ouyen United (Sunraysia)
In his second season with the club after returning following a one-year stint in 2017.
Will Henderson, Dunnstown (Central Highlands)
Took the captaincy in his stride and was a valuable player in multiple positions.
Jack Hickman, Mount Pleasant (Heathcote)
The Bendigo premiership winner thrived at his new club with 12 mentions in the best in 16 games with 19 goals.
Lewis Hill, Tooradin-Dalmore (West Gippsland)
Put together an impressive season with 11 mentions in the best from 19 games.
Charlie Hillier, Deniliquin Rams (Murray)
Back with his home club this season and proved why he is one of the most exciting young talents in the league.
Judah Hobbs, Noradjuha-Quantong (Horsham District)
Returned to the club at the start of the season and has gone onto be his side’s leading goalkicker.
Sam Hodgins, Hawkesdale Macarthur (Mininera and District)
Joined the club this season and put together a promising campaign across halfback.
Bradley Hoffman, Trafalgar (Ellinbank District)
The centre half back had some tough tasks in his first year at the club and impressed.
Kail Hole, Heyfield (North Gippsland)
Continued to excel at the club after making his senior debut in 2022.
Tom Holman, Moama (Murray)
A big name recruit who has delivered on his potential. Crossing from Kyabram, the versatile tall added power at either end of the ground.
Brendan Holt, Churchill (North Gippsland)
He might be in his 40s, but Holt continues to defy his age with his performances.
Marc Holt, Lang Lang (Ellinbank District)
Continued to kick goals for fun. Kicked 86 goals in 15 games after moving clubs in the off-season.
Will Holt, Natte Bealiba (MCDFNL)
His third year with the club and was one of the most impressive.
Marcus Hottes, Creswick (Central Highlands)
Won last year’s best and fairest in the East Gippsland league and the midfielder was great for Creswick this season.
Jai Howell, Natte Bealiba (MCDFNL)
The young gun joined from Maryborough at the start of the season. A highly skilled player who continued to impress.
Tom Hudson, Lakes Entrance (East Gippsland)
Recruited from Bairnsdale and became the focal point of his side’s forward line.
Tyriece Hudson, Meringur (Millewa)
In his first year of senior footy, he produced some exciting footy throughout the year.
James Hughes, Lorne (Colac and District)
His third season with the Dolphins after crossing from Torquay before 2022. Was a premiership player.
Keenan Hughes, Cowwarr (North Gippsland)
His side’s co-coach. He led from the front with 56 goals in 16 games.
Patrick Ireland, Buln Buln (Ellinbank District)
The former Gippsland Power player was impressive in his first season in the competition.
Michael Jacobsen, Traralgon Tyers United (North Gippsland)
One of the best midfielders in his competition with 12 mentions in the best this season.
Bryce Joyce, Ellinbank (Ellinbank District)
Enjoyed a standout season where he was in the best for 19 of his 21 games.
Frazer Judd, Greta (Ovens and King)
Almost kicked 100 goals for the season and helped the Blues to win the premiership. He ended the season with 90 goals in 15 games.
Sam Kalbfell, South Mildura (Sunraysia)
Was one of the best players for South Mildura in what was a tough season for the Bulldogs.
Jack Kelly, Greta (Ovens and King)
One of the best midfielders in the competition this year who just fell short of winning the league's’ best and fairest. Was in the best players in 11 of 20 games.
Sam Kerridge, Mildura (Sunraysia)
In his second season with the club and enjoyed another fine year. Represented the competition in interleague.
Joshua Kezerle, Katandra (Picola)
The midfielder was one of the best players for the club this season.
Cam Kimber, Learmonth (Central Highlands)
The midfielder continued to shine being one of the best for Learmonth.
Dylan Klemm, North Bendigo (Heathcote)
Finished with 66 goals for the season to be one of the league’s best.
Nathan Krepp, Merrivale (Warrnambool)
Had another strong season in front of goal to be one of the leading goalkickers in the competition.
Charlie Lang, Finley (Murray)
Joined at the club at the start of the 2023 season and has consistently been among the better players.
Tom Lang, Finley (Murray)
Since joining the Cats last season, Finley has emerged as one of the better players.
Aaron Laskey, Imperials (Sunraysia)
The midfielder impressed after coming from Queensland to play in Mildura.
Zack Leitch, Yackandandah (Tallangatta)
The ruckman shared the best and fairest with two other players. In his second season in the Tallangatta league the former Wangaratta Magpies player has become the premier ruckman in the league.
Brodie Leonard-Shannon, Maldon (MCDFNL)
Built on an impressive 2023 debut season and ranked among the league’s leading forwards with 65 goals.
Jonah Licht, South Mildura (Sunraysia)
The key forward joined from Mt Gravatt in Queensland where he was the captain last season. Was the leading goalkicker for his side in a tough season.
Billy Lloyd, Southern Mallee Thunder (Wimmera)
The midfielder continues to shine after moving to the competition from Ballarat.
James Lloyd, Murchison-Toolamba (Kyabram)
One of the leading goalkickers in country footy this season after reaching triple figures.
Drew Lloyd, Balranald (Central Murray)
One of the more consistent goalkickers in the competition in recent memory.
Tim Looby, Strathmerton (Picola)
Was the second footballer in local footy to reach the 100 goal milestone this year.
James Lukich, Bungaree (Central Highlands)
Enjoyed a strong season in front of goal with 72 majors.
Dean Macdonald, Yallourn Yallourn North (North Gippsland)
Enjoyed a fine season in front of goal with 79 majors.
Jayden Magro, Tyntynder (Central Murray)
Proved to be one of his league’s leading forwards after crossing from Shepparton United with 43 goals for the season.
Sully Malay, Goorambat (Ovens and King)
One of the best players for the Bats this year. Averaged almost a goal a game and was in the best players in 14 of 20 games.
Jack McCaig, Marong (Loddon Valley)
Enjoyed another standout season as his club made it three premierships in a row with 10 mentions in the best.
Charlie McCartin, Lorne (Colac and District)
His form was so good this season, he’s done enough to play some VFL footy with Sydney.
Luke McConnell, Red Cliffs (Sunraysia)
Made a strong impression in his first season with the club after consistently appearing among the better players.
Josh McDermott, Beaufort (Central Highlands)
The ruckman was one of the best players in a tough season for the Crows.
Connor McDonald, Tooleybuc Manangatang (Central Murray)
Named captain at the start of the year such was the impression he made in his first year at the club. Thrived with the responsibility.
Blake McDonnell, Wentworth (Sunraysia)
Returned to his junior club at the start of the season after a stint in South Australia’s Adelaide Footy League. Added outstanding depth to his side’s midfield.
Jackson McEwen, Wedderburn (North Central)
The midfielder has become one of his side’s most important players after joining in the middle of 2023.
Harry McGregor, Mallee Eagles (Central Murray)
The rising star was consistently in his side’s better players this season.
Jude McGuire, Talbot (MCDFNL)
A standout talent for his club. Shows composure beyond his years when he gets the ball in his hands.
Andrew McKay, Hepburn (Central Highlands)
One of the leading forwards in the competition with 45 for the season.
Ned McKeown, Swan Hill (Central Murray)
Made the move from Macleod in the Northern Football League at the start of the season. He is a key position prospect who can play at both ends of the ground.
Logan McKinnon, Gol Gol (Millewa)
Another fine season for a former league medal winner.
Logan McLeod, Russell Creek (Warrnambool)
In his second year of seniors he was one of the best in the competition. The midfielder has impressed around the ground.
Tyler McLeod, Newbridge (Loddon Valley)
Was one of the best for Newbridge this season in the forward line.
Tom McGregor, Pyramid Hill (Loddon Valley)
The defensive linchpin was one of the best for the Bulldogs this season.
Joel McNamara, Lucknow (East Gippsland)
The four-time club best-and-fairest winner was consistently in his side’s better players.
Naish McRoberts, Ararat Eagles (Mininera and District)
Enjoyed a strong season with consistent goalkicking and mentions in the best.
Jake McQueen, Nhill (Wimmera)
The former VFL player was been one of the best for the Tigers in his return to the club.
Charlie Mein, Paynesville (East Gippsland)
In year two with his club and again proved to be one of the leading players.
Josh Mellington, Bears Lagoon Serpentine (Loddon Valley)
Despite being limited to just nine games, the ex-AFL man still managed 93 goals.
Robbie Miller, Laharum (Horsham District)
Returned to the club at the start of the season from Woorinen and was among the competition’s best.
Jirra Moffatt, Bruthen (Omeo District)
Made his mark in his first full season for the club as one of the leading goalkickers. He did play one game back in 2014.
Brendan Monaghan, South Colac (Colac and District)
One of the leading performers for his side this season with consistent mentions in the best.
Damian Monaghan, Dartmoor (South West District)
The leading goalkicker for the Giants in his first season at the club.
Alex Morcom, Stratford (East Gippsland)
Enjoyed a strong season after much of last year was spent playing in Canada.
Kyle Mueller, Congupna (Murray)
The former Kyabram flyer was one of the best recruits of the season after kicking goals for fun on his way to a flag.
James Munro, Cora Lynn (West Gippsland)
Back at local level full-time this season and was been dominant.
Maysen Murgov, Wycheproof-Narraport (North Central)
Was one of the best players for the Demons this season after moving from the Essendon District league.
Jaxon Neagle, Balranald (Central Murray)
During his second season with the club and he was again one of the standouts.
Benji Neal, Robinvale-Euston (Sunraysia)
Won the McLead Medal last year during his first season with the club and was impressive once again.
Tyson Neander, Thurgoona (Tallangatta)
One of the top midfielders in the competition after moving to the league from Ovens and Murray in the off-season. Neander was been in the best players in 14 of 18 games.
Brady Neill, Carisbrook (MCDFNL)
Returned to the club at the start of the season and was one of his side’s most important players.
Connor Newnham, Kiewa Sandy Creek (Tallangatta)
One of the leading goalkickers in the competition. Newnham has kicked 66 goals in 21 games.
Tom Nihill, Nathalia (Murray)
Consistently one of the better players as an inside midfielder. Has played all of his footy for the Purps.
Mick Nolan, Gordon (Central Highlands)
Continued to be one of the best midfielders in the competition.
Jordan O’Dwyer, Numurkah (Murray)
Back with the Blues this season and became one of the competition’s best ball winners.
Reilly Old, Nagambie (Kyabram)
The young gun took his game to a new level this year.
James Orr, Heathcote (Heathcote)
The former Kyneton ruckman impressed in his first season at the Saints.
Joel Ottavi, Buninyong (Central Highlands)
Ottavi was brilliant in his return to the competition with 53 goals in 16 games.
Jock Overend, Wy Yung (East Gippsland)
Back to his best form in season 2024 after a quieter year in 2023. Came off a summer where he played in the NT and won a premiership with Pint.
Jacob Ozolins, Dederang Mt Beauty (Tallangatta)
Has had his best season for the club this year. Was in the best in 13 of 18 games.
John Paulin, Nirranda (Warrnambool)
Was one of his side’s Nirranda player despite missing a handful of games throughout the season.
Travis Patten, Thorpdale (Mid Gippsland)
Has been impressive for Thorpdale since his return to the club last year.
Paul Pattison, Inverloch-Kongwak (West Gippsland)
Emerged as one of the league’s best goalkicking midfielders medal fancies after crossing from Balwyn in the Eastern league.
Kayleb Pearce, Yarram (North Gippsland)
After missing all of last year with an ACL injury, Pearce returned to be one of the best for Yarram this season.
Kade Petering, Minyip Murtoa (Wimmera)
The former premiership player at the Burras was great again in his return year.
Declan Phillips, Skipton (Central Highlands)
Phillips was brilliant this season, consistently among the better players.
Tyler Phillips, Lockington Bamawm United (Heathcote)
Phillips once again reminded everyone why is considered one of the most dominant ruckman in central Victoria.
Nathan Pollard, Lindenow South (Omeo District)
Returned to the club after a year away with Maffra. He is a multiple best-and-fairest winner across club and league.
Devin Pollock, Yarragon (Ellinbank District)
The winger celebrated 100 games at the club and was one of the best for the Panthers this season.
Brody Pope, Horsham Demons (Wimmera)
The young gun was one of the best for the Demons in the midfield this year. This was Pope’s last year at the Demons with the midfielder to move to Ballarat next year to play for Redan.
Kynan Raven, Carngham Linton (Central Highlands)
A multiple best and fairest winner already at the club, Raven had one of his best years in the midfield.
Lincoln Reed, Mitta United (Tallangatta)
Kicked 40 goals in 17 games in his first season for the club. Last year, he played in the Ovens and Murray league for Wodonga Raiders.
Jim Reeves, Boisdale Briagolong (East Gippsland)
One of the most consistent goalkickers in the league since crossing from Maffra in 2021.
James Regan, Trentham (MCDFNL)
Arrived at the club from old Melburnians in the VAFA and went onto kick 84 goals in 17 games.
Josh Rentsch, Penshurst (Mininera and District)
The ex-SANFL forward rejoined the club at the start of the season and went onto be the league’s leading goalkicker.
Mitch Riddell, Westerns (South West District)
The senior assistant coach impressed after joining from the Mininera league in the off-season.
Nicholas Rippon, Birchip Watchem (North Central)
Another huge season with 13 mentions in the best and 35 goals.
Mack Rivett, Rokewood Corindhap (Central Highlands)
The former VFL player was been one of the best for the Hoppers this season, consistently among the best players.
Anthony Robins, Newstead (MCDFNL)
As he has in recent seasons, Robins has proven to be one of the most consistent players in the competition.
Jake Robinson, Ararat (Wimmera)
Won last year’s best and fairest in the competition and was a standout again.
Justin Robinson, Wandella (Golden Rivers)
The key forward, who was also the coach, played a key role in his side’s run to the preliminary final.
Jed Rodda, Harcourt (MCDFNL)
One of several young players who joined Harcourt in 2021 and has since emerged as one of the leading forwards in the competition.
Mitch Rogerson, Mildura (Sunraysia)
The star midfielder was one of the best for the Demons in a tough season.
Flynn Rowe, Dennington (Warrnambool)
The ruckman impressed in his first year despite travelling most weeks from Bendigo to Warrnambool to play.
Jack Russell, Moama (Murray)
A long-time servant of the footy club who continues to impress. Was superb last year and equalled that form in 2024.
Matt Ryan, Clunes (Central Highlands)
Impressed in his first full season of senior footy. Was mentioned in the best on 14 occasions.
Blake Safstrom, Rosedale (North Gippsland)
Moved from Sale City to Rosedale in the off-season and emerged as one of the league’s more consistent players.
Bailey Sawyer, Echuca United (Murray)
Has developed into a consistent key position prospect since returning to the club at the start of last season.
Domenic Scullino, South Mildura (Sunraysia)
A consistent player in a difficult season for his club.
Lachlan Sharp, Bridgewater (Loddon Valley)
There was no stopping Sharp who finished with 138 goals in 19 games.
Jake Smart, Toora (Mid Gippsland)
Continued to be one of the more impressive players in the competition after making the moving last year.
Thomas Smith, Russells Creek (Warrnambool)
Enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career in front of goal.
Cooper Stephens, Irrewarra-Beeac (Colac and District)
The former VFL player was among his side’s best this season.
Paul Summers, Swifts (Horsham District)
The recruit of the season in his competition after booting over 100 goals. His previous best was well below 40.
Ben Taylor, White Hills (Heathcote)
The former Ballarat league best and fairest helped White Hills to a flag and was among the competition’s elite midfielders.
Billy Taylor, Phillip Island (West Gippsland)
His best season of senior footy with 50 goals in 20 games as his side reached the grand final.
Henry Thompson, Woorinen (Central Murray)
One of the Tigers’ leaders. After making his senior debut during 2021, Thompson has gone onto become one of his side’s most important players.
Jai Thompson, Harrow Balmoral (Horsham District)
The senior coach was brilliant again during his second year in charge.
Shane Thorpe, Lindenow South (Omeo District)
After just seven games in 2023, Thorpe was super impressive with 21 goals in 17 games.
Jake Thrum, Irymple (Sunraysia)
The playing coach found form in the Sunraysia league immediately after helping Golden Square to win last year’s Bendigo league flag.
Peter Tuifao, Red Cliffs (Sunraysia)
Regarded as one of the Tigers’ most consistent players. The defender is hard at the footy and makes it a difficult day for opposition forwards.
Daniel Tung, Merbein (Sunraysia)
Has developed a name for being able to play multiple positions making him a key player for the Magpies.
Dylan van Berlo, Rutherglen (Tallangatta)
The Rutherglen coach was one of the best in the competition this year. The defender was in the best players in 16 of 18 games this season.
Nathan Voss, Koo Wee Rup (West Gippsland)
A star of the competition for many years and in 2024 he enjoyed yet another fine season.
Chris Wangman, Morwell East (Mid Gippsland)
Enjoyed another fine season with 78 goals in 17 games.
Harry Warfe, Omeo-Benambra (Omeo District)
In his first season of senior footy, he went onto to kick 90 goals.
Zac Warne, Lake Boga (Central Murray)
Returned to the club at the start of the season after a stint in Geelong and went onto become one of his side’s most consistent players.
Declan Watson, Hay (Golden Rivers)
The former VFL and VAFA player impressed with 64 goals in 11 games.
Daniel Watts, Nullawil (North Central)
The club stalwart continues to impress even after more than 300 games for Nullawil.
Jason Wells, Longwarry (Ellinbank District)
One of the leading goalkickers in the competition after returning to Longwarry following a couple of years in the West Gippsland league.
Nathan Wheildon, Newborough (Mid Gippsland)
Enjoyed a fine season, averaging just over two goals a game.
Alex Williams, Tongala (Murray)
One of the more consistent seasons he has put together in his career.
Tom Williamson, Ararat (Wimmera)
The Weekly Times named him as the best player in country footy this season.
Sean Willmott, Newlyn (Central Highlands)
Proved to be one of the most consistent players in his competition this season.
Kody Wilson, Neerim-Neerim South (Ellinbank District)
A standout season for the skipper, one of the more consistent players in the competition.
Jordi Withers, Tyrendarra (South West District)
Finished the season with 91 goals in 18 games and 10 mentions in the best.
Jezza Woods, Glenthompson Dunkeld (Mininera and District)
Was a consistent player in all areas of the game this season.
Originally published as Our country footy hidden gems of season 2024
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