Thompson started as coach at the Southern Roos in 2023, leading them to an unbeaten season to claim the premiership over Jeparit Rainbow Storm. They are currently unbeaten in 2024 and are still the best teams in the league.

Thompson wanted to focus on the rest of the season and was happy things could get wrapped up early.

"I love the club and am excited about what we can produce, and it's nice to get things wrapped up early," Thompson said.

"If I didn't want to do the job, then it's hard for the club to get a good coach, so as I wanted to stay on, it made sense to get it done now, and hopefully, we can lock away some players as well."

Thompson said the club has spoken about resigning him for the last few weeks.

"It was an easy decision when they approached me, and with the team going the way it is, it would be silly to jump out after the work we have achieved over the last couple of years," Thompson said.

"We have a great team, with some older guys and a lot of youth, and they have come a long way since we started, and the best thing is, we still have a few good young players ready to step up next year."

Harrow Balmoral president Tereasa Hobbs said he is a phenomenal human being.

"His professionalism and what he brings as a footballer, as well as a human being, is sensational, and we are so grateful for everything he does for the club," Hobbs said.

"He always thanks the volunteers, is humble and grateful, and so accommodating to everyone, which makes him a brilliant coach."

"It was important to us as he has fit in beautifully, and as a club, we can now focus on finals and start planning for 2025, and we couldn't be happier."

Thompson's work with the junior players has been important for the club, particularly as they have been unable to field an under-17s side this year.

"He has never been one to say that juniors can't train and is so open and welcoming with junior players," Hobbs said.

"We have one under-17 player that has started to train since pre-season and continued to train with the group, and in the group, we have sent off to Laharum for the year, three will be finishing under-17s this season and have all the tools to step up to senior football."

"It's also good to have them train with the senior players, mentor them, and learn from them. They are lucky that Jai is great at developing the juniors."

The Lakers won two games in 2022 and 2023, and in 2024, they are currently sitting on three wins in ninth position on the ladder and are a much-improved team compared to those years.

Not only has Beugelaar improved the team, but his professionalism and leadership have been outstanding for the young club, which is one thing the club has loved, according to club President Stuart Hall.

"I feel we have progressed in terms of our training standards and general standards around the club, and the expectations have been met," Hall said.

"Justin has come from a high level of footy interstate and has been able to instill some of that at the club and in the players."

"He has got through to the players, and they are listening. I believe we have one or two more wins this year."

"It would have been a great shame to have him wind up after one year as the senior team is feeling settled in his presence, and he is also a great contributor on the field and a great teacher."

On the field, Beugelaar has kicked 35 goals in 11 games, with his best being an eight-goal haul against Kaniva Leeor in round eight.

NETBALL - 1990 - 1999

Coaches: Robyn Milgate & Amanda Mentha 

We have named Joint Coaches of our 90s netball Team. Together they coached our first ever senior netball flag; Our 1995 B Grade Premiership.

Robyn made the hard decisions that had to be made in our one-goal win in the 1995 premiership. Having lost by the same margin the preceding year, the girls couldn't have that happen again.

Scoot (Amanda Mentha) and Robyn put in a lot of hard yards to toughen the team up and get the girls to that premiership win. A strong support for Robyn and the team.

Goal Keeper: Jane Dunn

Jane was a strong defensive player. She knew how to occupy the ring, making it very hard for the goalies to find any space. Her great strength was using her body to block attacking moves. 

Goal Defence: Michelle Mibus

Michelle was a legend of the club. This netballer played in defence, but also in centre. She was a great reader of the play and intercepted many passes coming down the court. Like Jane, she also made life difficult for any goalies who played on her. A multiple best and fairest with the club.

Wing Defence: Tracey McCaulliffe

Tracey is best summed up as a natural pest on the court. She made life difficult for her opponents and the goalies. Tracey loved any opportunity to block the goalies from entering the ring.

Centre: Maree Liston

Maree was a very skilled player. She was a real speedster around the court, ever reliable, and always made great positions. Strong attacking play was her forte. Whilst a knee injury cut her career short, she was dynamic when she was playing.

Wing Attack: Lisa Matthews

Lisa was a reliable attacking player. She played in goals and at Wing Attack. She made great positions around the ring and knew just where to place the ball to the Goalie's advantage. She was a member of the 1995 premiership.

Goal Attack: Jill Roberts

Jill is another legend of the club. Jill could use her body to protect the space in the goal ring like no other. Her ability to read the play made her a strong leader in attack, and her shooting accuracy was deadly. Jill was another member of the 1995 premiership side.

Goal Shooter: Jenny Velthuis

Jenny was a steady and rock-solid player. She was very accurate and didn't offer up many rebound opportunities. Jenny could shoot goals from anywhere. She was easy to play with as she knew her teammates moved inside out.

Interchange: Jenny Grimble

Jenny mostly played goal attack. She was quick and nimble around the court and a very accurate and reliable goalie.

Interchange: Narelle Hughes

Narelle played as a mid-court player. She could run all day and could always make position and drive the ball forward. She was an integral part of our first Premiership in 1995.

Interchange: Karen Griffiths

Karen was a goal shooter extraordinaire. She was a very accurate goalie and also a part of our 1995 Premiership team.

FOOTBALL 1990-1999

Coach: Shane Meade

Shane was an outstanding leader. He always led from the front and never asked anything from his troops that he wasn't prepared to do himself. This man had great relationships with his players, knowing exactly when to have a laugh and when to get the boys fired up. His players would give their hearts on a platter if he asked for them.

Back Pocket: Steve Parish

Steve was a warrior on the field who always gave his heart and soul to the cause. Tough and uncompromising he was fiercely loyal the club.

Full Back: Al Mentha 

Al was a great competitor. While he could be a bit of a hothead, he was also a great team player and protector of the group. He was a hard nut and a straight-ahead player.

Back Pocket: Richard McCaulliffe

Richard is a man of few words, but the opposition is always on the lookout for him. Strong and tough, he'd often be Meadie's protector! A reliable defender and an absolute team man.

Half Back Flank: David Laffy

David was a highly skilled and reliable player. He loved an intercept mark and always read the play well. This man rarely had a bad game and always stood up in finals when it mattered most.  

Centre Half Flank: Rohan Carboon

Rohan was a game-breaker. He was big and strong and could lock down the key forwards each week.

Half Back Flank: Hamish Mitchell

Hamish is a physical specimen. He was fast, skilful and used his endurance capacity to launch attacks from the backline.

Wing: Jason Camilleri

Jason was incredibly difficult for the opposition to match up on. With the ability to play on the talls or smalls, he also had a booming kick.

Centre: Craig Kemp

Craig was a great on-field leader. He had a hunger to win, and his endeavour was that of a man who played each game like it was his last.

Wing: Stuart Combe

Stuart is a legend of the club. A highly intelligent player, he was able to use his footy IQ to read the play quickly and win the football. Highly skilled and a great leader, he was a much-loved teammate.

Half Forward Flank: Paul Errington

Paul was a man small in stature but with an enormous heart.  This player brought great energy, spirit and skill to every contest and was a real goal sneak.

Centre Half Forward: Robert Maynard

Robert had a commanding presence that could play anywhere on the ground. He could play tall, using his strong frame to dominate marking contests but also had the agility to be damaging at ground level.

Half Forward Flank: Trevor Fletcher

Trevor could break a game open with a flash of brilliance. He was always able to get under the oppositions guard.

Forward Pocket: Damien Bunworth

Damian was a skillful player that was also tough. He possessed great evasive skills and was highly influential despite his young age.

Full Forward: Kieran Burke

Kieran played with great presence. He was able to use his large frame to great effect in marking contests. He loved to kick a goal and always looked out for his teammates.

Forward Pocket: Ben Fletcher

Ben could kick a goal from anywhere and loved to celebrate those goals too! He was highly skillful, had great hands on him and kicked bags of goals at will.

Ruck: Graeme Nuske

Graeme was highly influential in every game. He was a dominant ruckman but he also dominated as both a key forward and a key back. He kicked plenty of goals and saved just as many. 

Ruck Rover: Louie Dalziel (Captain)

Louie was one of the best footballers to ever pull on a Laharum Guernsey. He was as skillful and dynamic as he was tough. He struck fear into the hearts of the opposition and dominated on ball and around the ground with his uncompromising attitude to the contest. 

Rover: Brett Janetzki

Brett was a genius with the footy in his hands. Brilliant by hand and foot and possessing electric evasive skills he was a joy to watch. He was a great decision maker and was often three steps ahead of the opposition.

Interchange: Steven Both

Stephen was an unheralded player. He'd often slip under the guard of the opposition and always had an impact on the game. He could play at either end of the ground.

Interchange: Tim Nagorcka

Tim was a general down back. This man had a thirst for the contest and loved kicking long, direct kicks into the forward line.

Interchange: Peter Dunn

Peter could play anywhere on the ground and never took a backward step. This man bled red and blue and never took a backward step.

Interchange: Bruce Young

Bruce rounded out his career in the 90's. He was a versatile player that play anywhere on the ground and never played a bad game.

Trainer: Ivan Smith

Ivan was a crucial part of the teams success. Ivan always had positive things to say and some good advice. He loved the team, just like the team loved him.

NETBALL 2010-2019

Coaches: Caitlin Jones-Story & Erin Mellington

We have selected joint coaches for this decade. These two powerhouses were a driving force for Laharum, combining forces to take home that elusive A-grade Premiership in 2019.

Goal Keeper: Rebecca McIntyre

Rebecca was (and still is!) a seasoned premiership player who brought both experience and height to Laharum's defensive end.

Goal Defence: Ema Iredell

Ema was fiercely competitive, strong, and a genuine ball magnet. Running into her is like hitting a brick wall.

Wing Defence: Bronwyn Roberts 

Bronwyn loved a cheeky intercept or two, bolstering her team's defensive efforts. She was competitive to the very end.

Centre: Emma Uebergang

Emma was a highly skilled and clever mid-courter. Her netball brain and passing into the ring were second to none.

Wing Attack: Nicki Ervin (Hawker)

Nicki was a versatile player and frequently appeared in the mid-court and both ends. She was light on her feet and clean as a whistle.

Goal Attack: Maddie Iredell

Maddi is a mirror image of the other end of the court. Strong, tenacious, and known for her goal fakes, she was a formidable opponent for any team.

Goal Shooter: Caitlin Jones-Story

Caitlin was (and is) the best shooter in the league, rarely missing an opportunity to score and always finessing the ball back into her hands when the rebound opportunities came.

Interchange: Erin Mellington

White line fever doesn't entirely cover it for Erin, displaying fierce competitiveness no matter where she played on the court.

Interchange: Jess Lovel 

Jess could run circles around her opponents, showcasing both her speed and fitness. Known as the smiling assassin,

Interchange: Alysha Liston 

Alysha showed versatility as a mid-courter who was also capable of shooting the lights out.

FOOTBALL 2010-2019

Coaches: Marcus Demaria & Shannon Argall

We have selected joint coaches for our 2010-2019. As far as accomplishments and influence they could not be separated.

Marcus coached our 2013 premiership. He was able to turn the senior sides results from being on the bottom of the ladder when he started. Marcus was a great recruiter and setter of standards, ultimately leading the way with the sides improvement from when he first took on the coaching gig.

Shannon was a great teacher of the game. Head coach from 2014-2016, those sides were incredibly well drilled. Shannon drove standards and was an expert communicator. Every player knew their role and what was expected of them in all scenarios.

Back Pocket: Heath MacInnes

Heath is a heart and soul player that could be relied upon week in, week out. A tough and disciplined defender, he was a painful match up for opposition forwards. Underrated with his foot skills. he also had the ability to play in multiple positions.

Full Back: Brett Ervin

Brett is a club legend. This player dominated opposition full forwards every week without fail. Highly disciplined, this defender had great closing speed and had a long reach which spoiled many an opposition marking attempt. This player also was a great intercept mark and was able to set up many a rebounding attack.

Back Pocket: Kane Parish

Kane bled red and blue. A great one on one defender, he was highly dependable against opposition forwards. Kane always provided strong leadership and direction behind the ball.

Half Back Flank: Hamish Roberts

Hamish is one of the most skilful and intelligent players to ever wear the Laharum jumper. Hamish caused the opposition headaches as he used his elite decision making and evasive skills to provide drive from the half back line. His leadership was integral in their premiership success.

Centre Half Flank: Tom Crawford

Tom was simply too good to match up on. Not only was he tall and strong allowing him to dominate one on one match ups, he also was a great reader of the play and had a booming and accurate kick. An absolute weapon in our most dominate period.

Half Back Flank: Cam Streeter

Cam made a huge on field impact in his multiple stints at the club. Not only was he a hard nut that won his own footy, he also used his footy smarts and skills to set his team up when he had the ball on the outside. 

Wing: Ollie Braithwaite

Ollie is a fast and skillful player. He would run all day and was able to use his speed and footy smarts to break the lines. He was also terrific at applying pressure on the opposition.

Centre: Sam Winfield (Captain)

Sam is a player that inspired his teammates by his example. A great on field leader, he had the toughness and killer instinct to win the hard ball, but also possessed a great ability to use the ball well on the outside.

Wing: Elliot Braithwaite

Elliot is another pacey player. Not only was he quick, but also had great endurance and would run his opponents off their feet. He was a great asset with his defensive pressure and always provided great drive going forward.

Half Forward Flank: Gerard Matthews

Gerard is a highly intelligent player that was able to use his craft to find space against opponents. When the footy was in his hands he was a great decision maker and highly skilled. Whilst selected on a half forward flank, he was able to play all over the ground.

Centre Half Forward: Rhys Bennett

At centre half forward we have a key cog in our premiership sides. Rhys was very crafty and could easily lose his direct opponent giving his teammates a target. Nick Riewoldt-like with his fitness, this player would lead all day and work over his opponent.

Half Forward Flank: Jack Shields

On the other forward flank we have a dynamic player that provided elite forward pressure. Jack was great at getting to the feet of the bigger forwards and used his game sense to crumb goals regularly.

Forward Pocket: Daniel Griffiths

In the forward pocket we have a player that could pull freakish moves. Daniel had terrific evasive skills, was fast, skillful and read the play well, enabling him to get crumbs off every marking contest. Daniel's highlight reel is the envy of all.

Full Forward: Jason Przibilla

At full forward we have the clubs most prolific goal scorer. Despite never reaching the tonne in a home and away season, he kicked many a bag of goals. Jason was a fantastic reader of the ball in flight and used his body expertly to protect the drop of the ball. A reliable set shot at goal, he was a much-loved teammate.

Forward Pocket: Joe Harrison

In the other forward pocket position we have a prodigious talent. Whilst only young at his time playing seniors at the club, he dominated games up forward. Joe had a strong mark on him enabling him to play as a key forward, but he also had fantastic agility making him an impossible match up for the opposition. His elite skills and decision making ability made him a massive weapon for our side.

Ruck: Shan Argall

In the ruck is one of the most influential players to ever play at our club. A brilliant tap ruckman with a huge tank, Shan also used his elite contested marking ability to impact games like no other.

Whether clunking pack marks and kicking bags of goals up forward or taking marks at will behind the play, our premiership success would not have been achieved without this man's leadership and presence.

Ruck Rover: Robbie Miller

Robbie is a competitive beast. He led by example with his tenacity and will to win. His ability to win the hardball was second to none and by leading by example he inspired teammates to follow his lead. He also had an ability to run all day and pick up possessions at will.

Rover: Todd Heynon

Todd was a player with elite skill and game sense. When he had the footy in his hands he just seemed to have more time than others. His ability to accumulate possessions combined with the fact he didn't waste any possessions made him an absolute weapon in setting up attacking plays.

Interchange: Daniel Easson

Daniel was a hard-nut but possessed silky skills on the outside of the contest. He was an ultimate team man and played with poise despite his young age. 

Interchange: Angus Martin

Angus had great impact on games. He could play anywhere on the ground having the height and strength to play in key positions but the agility to play on ball. He was tough and uncompromising and had a booming right boot.

Interchange: Cam Bruce

Cam was a player that couldn't be tackled. His basketball background gave him an advantage around the ball. He seemed to make the game slow down around him and would use his evasive skills and clean hands to set his teammates up around him.

Interchange: Ben Peucker

Ben is a great servant of the club. He played predominantly in the ruck but was also valuable up forward as a tall but also enjoyed throwing his weight around on the ball. This player loved playing in the wet and when at his best, he impacted games like no other.

Trainer: Roger MacInnes

The final member of the team goes to the trainer. Roger is a man that served the club tirelessly through this decade, present at every training night and game from start to finish. He loved the players and looked after them without complaint.

Bone has a mild intellectual disability and previously played footy for the Wimmera Whippets. Over the last three years, he has been a prominent figure at Laharum on and off the field in the Horsham District Football Netball League.

Bone was not meant to play on Saturday, but he was a late call-up with a withdrawal close to the game. He played in the forward pocket and was rewarded with a down-the-field free kick in the fourth quarter, taking a shot at goal directly in front.

Senior coach Shannon Argall said everyone held their breath when he had his shot.

"The reserves captain, Joel Pymer, grabbed the ball and gave it to him. He said it was his kick," Argall said.

"Everyone held their breath as he took his kick, and he only managed to scrape it in. Everyone ran to him to congratulate him, and it is a moment he will remember for the rest of his life."

Brad's father, Aaron, was proud of his son.

"He always loved his footy, and he was determined to play in a proper league, and he has done it. He is 26 years of age, and he has worked hard, and I am proud of him," Aaron said.

Brad himself loved the moment.

"I was just thinking it was a grand final, and I wanted to kick the goal, and I was pretty happy I managed to kick it," Brad said.

"It was awesome, a good feeling, and a great experience, and hopefully more will come."

The reserves ended up defeating Pimpinio, 17.14.116 to 3.2.20.

The team celebrated the win and Brad's moment with beers and cheers following the game.

Before Brad got his license a few years ago, his mum took him to Laharum. Along the way, they came across the Pimpinio trailer broken down on the side of the road. They ended up towing the trailer to the ground.

Brad is a loved Laharum Football Netball Club member who always gives the team a rev-up talk after Thursday's training.

Shannon Argall explained the routine.

"Every Thursday night after training, after we prepare for the game, everyone gets around him, and he gives us a rev-up talk and says how we are going to defeat our opponents and how everyone will play a great game."

Laharum President Hamish Roberts also described Bone as a loveable character around the club.

"He is a bit of a character, and the boys scream and yell, which makes him feel special when he gives us a rev-up," Roberts said.

"It is good for him to be in that environment; everyone looks after him and is patient, which is great to see."

"He is also a good worker and is willing to help out around the club, whether running water or doing other little jobs that need to be filled."

Congratulations, Brad, on your milestone!

The round ties in with the Blue Ribbon Foundation Weekly Spirit of Sport awards, recognising good sportsmanship in under-17 footballers and 17-and-under netballers.

The round helps raise the profile of the Blue Ribbon Foundation, which promotes youth interaction with police and remembers the police who have died in the line of duty.

The Eagles brought the heat early, getting numbers back and playing a compact game in the midfield to lead by five points at the first break.

The Saints wrestled momentum back in the second quarter, reversing that deficit and taking a 12-point lead at the main break.

In the third quarter, the Saints started to get on top and break the Eagles strong defence kicking another four goals to two to lead by 21 points at three-quarter-time.

They kicked seven more goals in the last quarter as they got on top around the ground and ran out 18.9.117 to 10.8.68 winners.

Mitch Martin kicked six goals for the Saints, and Judd Wright kicked five. Gage Wright, William Taylor, Patrick Knott, and Sam Clyne were also among their better players.

Ryan McKenzie kicked four goals for the Eagles, with Machok Garang, their best player alongside Kyle Cheney, who kicked two goals, Riley Morrow, Dylan Watts, and Tyson Hunt.

The win keeps the Saints one game behind Nhill and Minyip Murtoa, in fifth and sixth place on the ladder, respectively.

Saints coach Ben Knott said it was a professional win.

"They had a clear plan, and eventually, with the sheer weight of numbers, we got the ball in our forward line and ran over them. It was a very professional win for us in the end," Knott said.

"Judd Wright was sensational, having his first game back in the seniors since round three, where he suffered an injury. He played reserves last week, and we decided to give him a crack this week, and he was sensational.

"We thought Machok Garang would have started centre-half-back for the Eagles, but he didn't, so we left Wright at centre-half-forward, and it was a good decision in the end."

Mitch Martin is continuing his goal-kicking form, with 11 in the last three games, and Knott said they plan on keeping him forward.

"He has been playing in midfield and been getting a lot of disposals through the middle and down back, but recently we needed him up forward, and he is damaging up there that we are looking at keeping him forward as much as we can," Knott said.

"We are looking at finding other players that can go through the midfield so we can play Mitch up forward a bit more."

The Swifts were stunned early, with Kalkee holding them goalless, powering to a 16-point lead at quarter-time.

The Baggies bounced back in the second quarter after a quarter-time rev-up from coach Brett Hargreaves. They kicked eight goals while holding Kalkee scoreless to lead by 35 points at half-time.

They kicked another six in the third quarter to extend that margin to 55 at three-quarter-time before another three goals in the last saw them run out 17.16.118 to 7.5.47 winners.

Ryan Folkes kicked four goals from the midfield, and Paul Summers was his consistent best with four goals.

Scott Carey was brilliant in midfield, and Joseph Martin, Andrew Cameron, and Angus Murray were among their best.

Patrick Mills was again Kalkee's best player alongside Josh Milbourne, Jakob Butcher, Isaiah Adams, Douglas Grining, and Matt Nield.

Laharum win a thriller

Laharum has shown they can win when the game is on the line, and they did it again, this time against Pimpinio, winning by six points at Cameron Oval.

The Tigers got off to a great start, leading by ten points at quarter-time, but rued their missed opportunities, with seven scoring shots to two for the quarter.

In the second quarter, the Demons started to get the ascendancy around the contest, kicking three goals to one to lead by five points at the main break.

The Tigers responded in the third with a four-goal quarter, leading by seven points at the last break.

The Demons, through some structural changes made at three-quarter-time, applied pressure, keeping the Tigers goalless to kick two goals to run out 8.9.57 to 7.9.51 winners.

Angus Atchison kicked two goals for the Demons. Shannon Argall was brilliant around the ground, and Daniel Easson and Robbie Miller were great through the midfield.

Jason Westley kicked three goals for the Tigers, with Dylan Thomas, Matthew Rosier, and Jye Brown among their best.

Demons coach Shan Argall said they made several positional changes at three-quarter-time.

"Campbell Mason moved from half forward to halfback, and Ryan Thomas moved from half back to the full forward line, and we were able to get the best matchups defensively," Argall said.

"I told the boys that we are coming of age and we have gone from no wins to starting to win close games, to absorb pressure, and to stick to how we want to play, and they were able to do it.

"We put in a lot of defensive effort, applied more pressure, and grinded out a couple of goals."

"The boys are now starting to get that belief that we can win close games and we are treating these games like mini finals."

Harrow Balmoral put on a clinic

Harrow Balmoral put on a clinic at Harrow Recreation Reserve, defeating Noradjuha Quantong by 106 points.

The Southern Roos came out blazing, kicking nine goals to three to lead by 40 points at quarter-time. In the second quarter, they held the Bombers to one goal, increasing their lead to 69 points at three-quarter-time.

In the third quarter, they added another four goals to nil to extend the margin to 98 points at the last break before running out 19.22.136 to 4.6.30 winners.

Rhys Daffey was sensational with four goals, and Michael Close returned to his brilliant best after a month on the sidelines earlier in the season. Will Burbury, Jai Thompson, William Plush, and Joshua Grant were among their best.

Alex Ross, James Hallett, Jack Vague, Connor O'Beirne, Ash Lawson, and Zachary Kelly were the best players for the Bombers.

Southern Roos coach Jai Thomspon said that was quickly the best football they have played for the season.

"It was impressive to watch; everything was on point. We moved the ball well, linked up well, and nailed our targets all day," Thompson said.

"We applied pressure all day and just didn't back off. Even the commentary team on the weekend said the skills were fantastic, and it was one of the best games they had seen."

Thompson said Michael Close was brilliant and that Clint Robinson is doing a great job filling in for Brait Headon down back.

"Michael Close was easily best on the ground for us. He created a lot of opportunities and took a lot of contested marks. He dragged many defenders, which freed up guys like Daffey."

"Clint Robinson has come back from the reserves to cover for Brait and has been great. He is a lockdown defender and hard to beat one-on-one."

"Our team defence has also been good as everyone is getting across helping him out, and our midfielders are also getting back."

Cougars withstand Rams fightback to win thriller

At Natimuk Showgrounds, Kaniva Leeor survived a late comeback from Natimuk to win by three points.

The Cougars were dominant throughout the game, leading every quarter, consolidating a 15-point lead at three-quarter-time.

The Rams, spurred on by their sponsors at their sponsor's day, kicked four goals in the last quarter but fell short of losing 11.9.75 to 12.6.78.

Harley Bennell was outstanding for the Cougars with four goals with Billy King, Charlie Maddern and Jock Maddern.

Cody Frizon kicked three goals for the Rams, with Callum Hayes, Daniel Werner, and Dylan Newell among their best.

Saints storm to a comfortable win

At Edenhope Football Ground, Edenhope Apsley had a dominant win over Taylors Lake.

The Saints flew out of the blocks, kicking four goals to one to lead by 18 points at quarter-time. The Lakers challenged hard in the second quarter, winning the quarter to trail by 17 points at half-time.

The Saints flexed their muscles in the third quarter, holding the Lakers goalless to extend the margin to 32 points at the last break.

They, again, held the Lakers goalless in the last as they ran out 11.12.78 to 4.6.30 winners.

Charlie Campbell, Joshua Robinson, and Nathan Witherow all kicked two goals apiece for the Saints, with Jeremy Kealy, Boyd Packer, and Christopher La Rocca among their best.

Justin Beugelaar led the way for the Lakers on the scoreboard with two goals, with Bray Cullinan, their best player, continuing his excellent season. Billy Finnigan, Brayden Gebert, and Hunter Campey were among their best.

The Rats stunned the Thunder early, kicking five goals to one to lead by 27 points at quarter-time.

They kept the momentum rolling in the second quarter, kicking another four goals to one to lead by 45 points at half-time, leaving the locals stunned.

The Rats continued to dominate around the ground, holding the Thunder to three points in the third quarter to extend their lead to 67 points at the last break.

The Thunder battled the game out, winning the last quarter, but the Rats were too strong all day to run out 16.6.102 to 8.7.55 winners.

Tom Mills and Tom Williamson continued their goal-kicking form with another four apiece, with Cody Lindsay brilliant in the ruck with Jake Robinson, Jack Ganley, and Brody Griffin among their best players.

For the Thunder, Thomas Clarke and Kieran Delahunty kicked two apiece, with Bily Lloyd, Jake Garvey, Lou White, Sam White, Heath Smith, and Leigh Stewart also among their best.

Ararat co-coach Tom Mills said it was one of the best games they have played for the season but was disappointed in the last quarter, letting them get a run on.

"Our pressure was unreal, and it put us on track for the whole game, which was nice and pleasing to see," Mills said.

"The last quarter we were a bit disappointed as we let them kick five goals and took the feet off and cost ourselves some percentage.

"Despite that, it was still a good win and one we can take confidence out of moving forward."

Saints stay in touch of the final five with a tough win over the Eagles

The Horsham Saints finals hopes remain alive following a gritty 49-point win over the Warrack Eagles at Anzac Park.

The Eagles brought the heat early, getting numbers back and playing a compact game in the midfield to lead by five points at the first break.

The Saints wrestled momentum back in the second quarter, reversing that deficit and taking a 12-point lead at the main break.

In the third quarter, the Saints started to get on top and break the Eagles strong defence kicking another four goals to two to lead by 21 points at three-quarter-time.

They kicked seven more goals in the last quarter as they got on top around the ground and ran out 18.9.117 to 10.8.68 winners.

Mitch Martin kicked six goals for the Saints, and Judd Wright kicked five. Gage Wright, William Taylor, Patrick Knott, and Sam Clyne were also among their better players.

Ryan McKenzie kicked four goals for the Eagles, with Machok Garang, their best player alongside Kyle Cheney, who kicked two goals, Riley Morrow, Dylan Watts, and Tyson Hunt.

The win keeps the Saints one game behind Nhill and Minyip Murtoa, who are in fifth and sixth place on the ladder, respectively.

Saints coach Ben Knott said it was a professional win.

"They had a clear plan, and eventually, with the sheer weight of numbers, we were able to get the ball in our forward line and ran over them. It was a very professional win for us in the end," Knott said.

"Judd Wright was sensational, having his first game back in the seniors since round three, where he suffered an injury. He played reserves last week, and we decided to give him a crack this week, and he was sensational.

"We thought Machok Garang would have started centre-half-back for the Eagles, but he didn't, so we left Wright at centre-half-forward, and it was a good decision in the end."

Mitch Martin is continuing his goal-kicking form, with 11 in the last three games, and Knott said they plan on keeping him forward.

"He has been playing in midfield and been getting a lot of disposals through the middle and down back, but recently we needed him up forward, and he is damaging up there that we are looking at keeping him forward as much as we can," Knott said.

"We are looking at finding other players that can go through the midfield so we can play Mitch up forward a bit more."

Burras shock Demons

Like the Saints, the Burras faced a must-win game and dismantled form team the Horsham Demons by 45 points at Horsham City Oval.

The Burras stunned the home side early, kicking four goals to one to lead by 21 points at quarter-time. The Demons fought hard in the second quarter but could only peg the deficit back to 19 points at the main break.

The Burras didn't let up in the third quarter, kicking another five goals to one to take a 40-point lead into three-quarter-time.

In the last quarter, the Burras controlled the game to run out 16.10.106 to 8.13.61 winners.

Tanner Smith kicked five goals for the Burras, with Wawrick Stone, Kade Petering, Luke Fisher, Jae McGrath, and Oscar Gawith among their best players.

For the Demons, Jordon Motton led the way with four goals up forward, with Brody Pope, Archie Elliott, Lachlan Hobbs, Jasper Gunn, and Tyler Blake their best players.

Warriors move to second with a comfortable win over Roos

At Central Park, four goals to Cody Driscoll have helped guide them to a convincing 55-point win over Dimboola.

The game was tight early, with Dimboola taking a four-point lead into quarter-time, kicking the quarter's only goal.

In the second quarter, Stawell kicked six goals to two to lead by 17 points at half-time.

The Warriors continued their momentum in the third and could have blown the game away, kicking three goals, seven behinds to two behinds to lead by 40 points at the last break.

The last quarter was a formality, with the Warriors running out the game to win 13.15.93 to 5.8.38.

Thomas Eckel was best on the ground through the midfield, with Zachary Morrow, Jackson Dark, Josh Fowkes, Jack Walker, and Aiden Graveson among their best.

For the Roos, Jack Landt led the way through the middle with Ashley Clugston, Andrew Moore, Ben Miller, Jackson O'Neill, and Darcy Dubois, their best players.

The semifinal started hard-fought, with neither team giving an inch. At quarter-time, the scores were level at 1.2.8 apiece.

The Demons started to win contests around the ground and kicked two goals to lead by 13 points at half-time.

The Kangaroos were excellent in the third quarter, pegging the margin back to a goal, but the Demons stood firm to take a 14-point lead into three-quarter-time.

The Kangaroos battled hard in the last to get back into the game, but the Demons were too fast and strong, running out 8.5.53 to 5.4.34 winners.

Vanilla Ika was outstanding up forward for the Demons, kicking four goals, with Madeleine Huggins kicking two. Holly Smith, Catherine O'Dea, Crystal Summers, and Tatiana Nelson were all among the Demon's best players.

Ruby Cleaver kicked two goals for the Kangaroos, and Emily Pitts, Leah Mitschin, Zhane Crawford, Sophie Rentsch, and Elise Thurman were also among their best players.

Demons team manager Eliza McAnulty said the win was fantastic.

"There was pure elation after the game. To defeat the two-time reigning premiers was fantastic, and everyone was celebrating like we had won the grand final," McAnulty said.

"Vanilla Ika played a fantastic game, and Crystal Summers and Holly Smith played pivotal roles in the ruck.

"We will hold a big training session on Wednesday before the grand final."

"We have all the ingredients to make it happen. We just need to put it together."

They will now play South Warrnambool in the Grand Final next Sunday after they defeated Tyrendarra 16.10.106 to 0.0.1.

The Grand Final will be played in Mortlake at D.C. Farren Oval.

Unfortunately, the Demons under-18s didn't make the Grand Final but can hold their heads high for a fantastic season.

Against South Warrnambool, they were always up against it but battled hard in their 12.15.87 to 1.0.6 loss.

Amba Zolj kicked the only goal for the Demons with Greta Arnel, Violet McGennisken, Charmaine Lockwood, Poppy Peters, Amaya Woodward and Lara Purchase their best players.

South Warrnambool will now play Cavendish in the Grand Final following Cavendish's 6.5.41 to 3.9.27 win over Terang.

The Demons are the form team of the competition, heading into the finals with seven consecutive wins, which included an impressive three shut-outs and a victory against top-of-the-ladder South Warrnambool. They finished second on the ladder with eight wins and two losses.

They have played Hamilton twice this season. They lost the first match in round two by nine points before winning by 40 points in the second match at home in round seven.

The other match will be contested between ladder leaders South Warrnambool and Tyrendarrra on Sunday at Reid Oval.

The winners of the two matches will play each other in the Grand Final the following week, with a time, date, and venue to be announced.

The under-18s are also in the finals, finishing fourth. They will meet top-of-the-ladder South Warrnambool, also at Reid Oval.

On Saturday, David's son, Hunter, played his 50th senior match for the Lakers, which was also a special moment.

Campey kicked a rare goal after the siren in an extra special moment, and they won 24.18.162 to 1.2.8.

Campey had played for the Lakers since 1996, when he moved from the Wandella Football Club in the Golden Rivers Football Netball League to the club. He had previously played for Ararat.

Over his career, he has played various positions, with ruck being the only position he has never played.

In 2018, the under-14s won the premiership, defeating the Swifts by five goals. Although he wasn't coach, he was close to the coach, and his son Hunter played in the side, which was one of his brightest moments at the club.

"It was our club's first junior premiership, and given the journey they had taken, it was a special win and was my best moment at the club," Campey recalled.

Campey contributes on and off the field, as do his family.

David helps out umpiring the under-14s, and his wife Sarah is a former netballer and netball director.

His son Hunter has consistently contributed to the football field in 2024, and his daughter Summer plays in the 17-and-under and B-grade netball.

Speaking of Hunter, David said one of the other highlights has been playing with him.

"When Hunter started playing senior football in 2021, I was lucky enough to play some reserves and senior games with him, which was another highlight," Campey said.

Being a club stalwart and role model, Campey says it's good to mentor the club's younger players.

"I get out to chat with the boys and learn their names, encourage them, and talk to them between the breaks," Campey said.

"Some of these kids, I played football with their fathers, and you have known some since they were babies, and at the end of the day, it's a family.

"The reality is, 29 years playing for the club, that's more than half of my life."

David has been blessed with injuries over the years. His worst injury was a broken hand, which caused him to miss a few games. Recently, he has started getting plantar fasciitis, but it's easily managed.

"I enjoy getting out there and having a challenge, even more so now alongside spreading experience and helping out the younger team members," Campey said.

"When you sit in an office five days a week, and footy is the only sport you play, it's a good outlet."

Campey puts his longevity down to some things, noting fitness and looking after his health.

"I don't drink, I don't smoke, and I am just on a normal diet. I eat well," Campey said.

"I do park run in the off-season, and I also walk to work, so I cover 30/50km a week walking or running, which keeps me going.

"Some older blokes tend to sit around and don't do anything, but I hate sitting around and doing nothing, so I like to stay active."

With the wind blowing to one side of the oval, the first quarter was a scrappy match, with the Demons taking a five-point lead into quarter-time.

The Demons started slowly getting on top around the ground as the margin was extended to 17 points at half-time.

A four-goal to two third quarter saw the Demons lead by 29 points at three-quarter-time. The Demons then ran out the game, kicking three goals to two to win 13.12.90 to 6.12.48.

Hugo Papst was best on the ground for the Demons, with Ben Lakin, Sid Hernon, Brody Pope, Tyler Blake, and Cullen Williams amongst their best.

The Demons had eight different goal-kickers, showing their versatility in front of goal.

Corey Morgan and William Taylor both kicked two goals for the Saints. Mitch Martin continued his brilliant season in the midfield, and Cody Bryan and Sam Clyne were also among their best.

Demons coach Jordy Burke said the Saints played good football and were happy with the pressure they applied to escape the Saints.

"We made a couple of changes, one of which was putting Hugo Papst into defence and Sid Hernon in the ruck," Burke said.

"Hernon was rucking most of the third quarter, and he was spot on. He matched up well and played a good game. He moves well, allowing us to move Billy Carberry forward."

"Hugo intercepted the ball well and set things up nicely. It freed up Ben Lakin to run and carry out of defence and all our back six was sensational with Cullen Williams also intercepting well."

"Hugo then went back forward and kicked a few, and it was good seeing a handful of players step up and hit the scoreboard, which just makes us more dangerous."

"I am thrilled to get the four points, especially after following a big win the week before."

Rats thrash Eagles to stay in second

Eight goals to Jack Ganley and five to Tom Williamson and Tom Mills have led Ararat to a 121-point drubbing over the Warrack Eagles at Alexandra Oval.

Ararat held the Eagles goalless in the first quarter to lead by 32 points at quarter-time. The Eagles only managed one goal in the second quarter as Ararat piled on another eight to lead by 76 points at half-time.

The Eagles fought hard in the third quarter, kicking three goals, but Ararat kicked four to extend the margin to 87 points at the main break.

Ararat kicked seven more goals in the last quarter to run out 24.16.160 to 6.3.39 winners.

Ben Taylor, Cody Lindsay, Baydn Cosgriff, and Jacob Bates were among the best for Ararat.

Dan McKenzie and Charlie Wilson kicked two goals for the Eagles, with Matthew Penny, Ryan McKenzie, and Lachie Stewart among their best.

Warriors survive late comeback from the Burras

Stawell withstood a late comeback from Minyip Murtoa to record a ten-point victory.

It was a close first quarter with the Burras leading by five at quarter-time. The Warriors kicked three goals to one in the second quarter to lead by eight points at half-time.

In the third quarter, the Warriors kicked four goals to lead by 23 points at three-quarter-time. The Burras had their chances, kicking four behinds in the quarter.

The home team didn't give up, kicking three goals in the last to fall short, with Stawell winning 10.7.67 to 7.15.57.

Ash and Cody Driscoll kicked two goals apiece for Stawell, with Thomas Eckel outstanding in a best-on-the-ground display. Josh Fowkes, Jackson Dark, and Jakob Salmi were also among their best.

Oscar Gawith continues his excellent form for the Burras, kicking three goals with Samuel Griffiths, Luke Fisher, Josh Roman, and Charlie Gibson among their best.

Tigers end the Roos season with a triple-figure win

At Dimboola Recreation Reserve, Nhill has killed any chance of Dimboola making the finals, registering a 102-point win.

The Tigers held the Roos to one goal in the first three quarters, as they kicked 14 goals and 12 behinds to lead by 88 points at three-quarter-time.

The Roos kicked three goals in the last, with the Tigers adding another five to run out 19.15.129 to 4.3.27 winners.

Drew Schneider kicked four goals for the Tigers, with Jake Harrap, Jake McQueen, Matt Kennedy, and Petros Politis among their best players.

Jack Landt led the way for the Roos with two goals, with Ashley Clugston, Andrew Moore, Darcy Dubois, and Jackson O'Neill among their best.

The loss continues Dimboola's woes for the season. They now sit three games behind fifth place, and with seven games remaining, they would need a miracle to play finals.

If they didn't secure their finals spot before, they have now. They sit fourth on the ladder, four games clear of seventh-placed Kalkee.

The first quarter saw repeat stoppage after stoppage, and the Kees did well to challenge the Demons with their game style, trailing by only one point at quarter-time.

The Demons changed things up and started to take possession of the ball, which opened the game up. They kicked three goals to one behind to lead by 20 points at half-time.

The Demons pride themselves on their defence, and showed why they have one of the best defences in the league as they held Kalkee to one behind in the second half, winning 9.10.64 to 2.2.14.

Pat Lattanzio and Robbie Miller each kicked two goals for the Demons. Reuben Launder played a starring role in the midfield, with approximately 15 tackles, aided by the consistent Daniel Easson and Robbie Miller, and Sean Wouters was excellent up forward.

Demons co-coach Shannon Argall praised his troops for adjusting after the first quarter.

"They tagged a few of our key players and flooded numbers at the contest, but credit to the boys, they adapted to our changes," Argall said.

"We generally have a measured approach going forward, and we started to move the ball more directly."

"Reuben Launder has grown under Robbie and Daniel's mentorship in the middle, and he is starting to come into his own and play well, which is pleasing to see.

"Sean Wouters has been thrown around a bit in recent weeks but played more up forward and did a good job."

Tigers back to best with a comfortable win over the Panthers

At Pimpinio Sporting Complex, Pimpinio defeated Rupanyup by 55 points.

The first quarter was tight with the home side leading by six points at quarter-time. The Tigers kicked six goals to two in the second quarter to lead by 34 points at half-time.

With second halves being a worry, the Panthers came out firing in the third quarter, kicking three goals to one to trail by 21 points, and it looked like the Tiger's second-half woes would continue.

At three-quarter-time, Guy Smith revved up his players, and they responded, kicking five goals to nil to run out 16.13.109 to 8.6.54 winners.

Jason Westley kicked an equal game-high four goals for the Tigers, with Dylan Bates and Nick Groves kicking three a-piece. Matthew Rosier, Adam Westley, Dylan Thomas, and Daniel Baker were among their best.

Brayden Ison kicked four goals for the Panthers, with Mitchell Gleeson, Cam Weston, Kieran Sait, and Blake Turner their best players.

Lakers secure third win of the season

Taylors Lake returned from a 12-point deficit at half-time to defeat Natimuk by 24 points at Dock Lake Recreation Reserve.

The Lakers led by 10 points at quarter-time, but a four-goal to one second quarter saw Natimuk lead by 12 at half-time.

The Lakers held the Rams to one point in the third quarter as they retook the lead and led by nine points at three-quarter-time.

The Lakers ran the game out to win 9.11.65 to 5.11.41.

In the win, Justin Beugelaar kicked a game-high three goals, with Bray Cullinan named the best on the ground. Tyson Kidney, Connor Schiller, and Thomas Clugston were other standouts for the Lakers.

Kaiden Sudholz was the Rams' best player, with Jonathan Lovel, Cody Frizon, Liam Klowss, and Ned Glascott also among their best.

Bombers soar as Hobbs kicks another bag

Brock Orval's return to the team didn't interfere with Judah Hobbs, who kicked another bag, this time seven goals, as the Noradjuha Quantong defeated Edenhope Apsley by 141 points at Quantong Recreation Reserve.

Hobbs has been on fire lately, kicking 24 goals in his last three games. The Bombers led by 25 points at quarter time, and a seven-goal to-nil quarter extended the lead to 68 points at halftime.

The Bombers were relentless in the third quarter, holding the Saints to one behind as they piled on another six goals to lead by 109 points at the main break.

They didn't stop there, kicking another six in the last to win 24.16.160 to 2.7.19.

In their return to footy following a stint out, Damian Cameron and Brock Orvall kicked three goals alongside Connor O'Beirne. Jayden Besford, James Gregg, and Riley Dunlop were among the best.

Ben Campbell led the Saints, with Shayne Williams, Josh La Rocca, and Jordan Baxter also playing well.

Strong wind across the ground made it a slog early, but the Swifts were able to wrestle out an 11-point lead at quarter-time.

In the second quarter, they started to get on top, extending the lead to 25 points at half-time.

They came out after half-time firing, scoring another three goals to one to lead by 38 points heading into the final quarter.

A five-goal quarter saw the Baggies win 14.10.94 to 4.3.27.

Paul Summers kicked six goals for the Baggies, bringing his total to 78 goals for the season. Josh Folkes and Tallis Miles were brilliant through the midfield with Kobe Lowe playing a significant role in the ruck with Brodie Kindred excellent down back.

For the Cougars, Sam Vivian, Billy King, Hamish Bennett, and Joel Wagg were among their best players.

Swifts coach Brett Hargreaves said Folkes got them going when things were tough early and was thrilled with Lowe's game in the ruck.

"Josh tried hard and put his hand up and said he would be the one to get us going, and it set the tone, and he played well," Hargreaves said.

"With Matt Healy and me out, Kobe did a super job for us in the ruck. He has been playing half-forward, and as a youngster, I am proud of his effort, especially against a good player like Hamish Bennett. He got his own football and won the ruck."

The Demons held their opponents scoreless in the first half, taking a 21-point lead into half-time.

It was the third quarter where the Demons did the damage, kicking six goes to one to lead by 52 points at three-quarter time.

The last quarter was a formality. The Demons did not stop, kicking another four goals while holding Tyrendarra scoreless to run out 13.4.82 to 1.0.6 winners.

Vanilla Ika was sensational, kicking four goals for the Demons, with Alica Drew, Madeleine Huggins, and Crystal Summers kicking two apiece. Shannon Cross, Holly Nuske, and Elle Treloar also hit the scoreboard.

Dellie Brown was best on the ground for the Demons, with Bethany Bates and Maidson Churchill also outstanding.

Ebony Stiles was Tyrendarra's solitary goal kicker, with Heidi Jones and Macy Fuller among their best players.

The win secures second spot on the ladder, and they will now play Hamilton in the semi-finals.

The under-18 girls traveled to Portland and battled hard in their 46-point loss to the Tigers at Hanlon Park. Portland won 9.8.62 to 2.4.16.

Scarlett Abbott kicked the only two goals for the Demons,, while Amba Zolj, Maggie Fisher, Greta Arnel, Violet McGennisken,, and Tayla Hudson were all among the best players.

The scoreboard showed that Ararat had won, but the umpires confirmed that the Demons were victorious.

Ararat led by ten points at quarter-time, extending the lead to 13 at half-time.

In the third quarter, the Demons were trailing by five goals at one point, but they kicked the last couple of goals to bring the margin back to 21 points at three-quarter time.

The Demons started to get control in the last quarter, kicking five goals to one to win in a thriller, 11.13.79 to 10.17.77.

Jordon Motton kicked four goals for the Demons, with Jasper Gunn being the best on the ground through the midfield. Billy Carberry and Brody Pope were also outstanding for the Demons.

For Ararat, Tom Mills returned following a broken jaw to lead the way with three goals, with Jack Ganley and Matthew Spalding among their best players.

Demons coach Jordy Burke said he thought they had won.

"I had an inkling we had won as both teams got a message on the bench that the scores were wrong," Burke said.

"Ryan Kept had a shot after the siren, thinking it was for the win; he missed, and everyone thought we lost. Thankfully, they were confirmed as wrong. It was a great win."

Burke said his message at three-quarter-time was to persevere.

"I have been harping on it all season, especially in the last month, in that we had to persevere and keep working, hold the line, and stick to the game plan," Burke said.

"To be able to translate that into a win and not be talking about an honourable loss has shown they understand what needs to be done, and I commended the boys on that after the game.

"They nailed the clutch and critical moments and stood up, which was nice."

"Jasper Gunn played his best game for the club so far, and he has just been building each week and is having a bit more of an influence now. Yesterday suited him to the ground as he hit the ball hard and managed to kick two goals up forward."

Stawell prevail over the Horsham Saints in a thriller

Stawell defeated the Horsham Saints at Central Park by four points in a thriller.

In a tight first quarter, the Saints got on top and took a six-point lead into quarter-time. The Warriors pegged it back in the second quarter and took the lead by a point at half-time.

In the third quarter, the Saints kicked three goals to one to lead by six points at three-quarter-time.

The Saints were leading late in the quarter, but the Warriors found a way to win, 9.14.68 to 10.4.64.

Cody Driscoll kicked six goals for the Warriors, with Jackson Dark, Josh Fowkes, and Thomas Eckel all outstanding.

For the Saints, Mitch Martin kicked four goals in the midfield, with Sam Clyne, Gage Wright, and William Taylor among their best.

Saints coach Ben Knott said it was a great game of football.

"Both teams applied plenty of pressure and gave it a red hot crack, and it definitely would have been a good game for the neutral supporters," Knott said.

"The boys rebounded well. They knew last week wasn't acceptable, and they came out with a point to prove, and everyone lifted. Unfortunately, we couldn't get the win, but we know what we can do when we play to our best."

The Saints have been crippled by injury all year. They suffered another two, with Angus Martin on crutches at the end of the game with an ankle injury and Arden Sodello suffering a knee injury in his first senior match of the year.

Knott said Mitch Martin had a brilliant game after he instructed him to move forward a bit more.

"Mitch has been getting a lot of touches in the backline, so I told him I wanted him to get less and get in the front half and get dangerous, which is where he plays best, and that is what he did," Knott said.

"He kicked four goals playing in the midfield a fair bit, and he didn't have so many possessions, but the ones he had were quite impactful, which is much better for us."

Nhill run over Minyip Murtoa in the last quarter to secure victory

A six-goal to-one final quarter saw Nhill return from a ten-point deficit at three-quarter-time to defeat Minyip Murtoa by 27 points at Davis Park.

The Burras controlled the game early, taking a 15-point lead into quarter-time. The Tigers kicked four goals in the second quarter to peg the margin back to nine points at half-time.

It was a tight third quarter, but the Burras held firm to take a 10-point lead into the last break.

With a loss detrimental to their season, the Tigers responded in the last quarter, running over the Burras to win 15.12.102 to 11.9.75.

Xavier Bone kicked five goals for the Tigers, with Daniel Batson and Jake Harrap among their best players.

For the Burras, Oscar Gawith kicked another six goals for the second consecutive week, and Samuel Griffiths and Tanner Smith also excelled.

Southern Mallee Thunder thrash Warrack Eagles to go a game clear

The Thunder moved a game clear of Ararat on the ladder following a comfortable 97-point win over the Eagles at Anzac Park.

The Eagles were competitive in the first half, trailing by 23 points at quarter-time and 24 at half-time.

After half-time the Thunder asserted their dominance, holding the Eagles scoreless, kicking seven goals to lead by 69 points at three-quarter time.

They held the Eagles scoreless again in the last quarter to run out 18.12.120 to 3.5.23 victors.

Bradley Lowe kicked six goals in the win, with Thomas Clarke, Xavier Oakley, and Angus McSweyn outstanding.

For the Eagles, Jai Kovatseff kicked two goals, with Machok Garang outstanding alongside William Batson and Ryan McKenzie.

It was a tight first quarter, with the Demons taking a two-point lead into quarter-time. The Panthers kicked three goals to two in the second quarter to lead by nine points at the main break.

Both teams were inaccurate in the third quarter, kicking nine behinds between them, but the Panthers extended their margin to 16 points at the final break.

The Demons never gave up and held the Panthers goalless in the last. When Demons' Phillip Butsch nailed a goal on the boundary, forty meters out, they were up by a point, and the siren blew not long after to give them a 6.12.48 to 6.11.47 win.

Robbie Miller kicked two goals for Laharum and was best on the ground, with Daniel Easson again prominent throughout the midfield. Shannon Argall was great up forward in the last quarter, and Sean Wouters was also outstanding.

Brayden Ison kicked five goals for the Panthers, and Bill Hansen was excellent in the midfield. Connor Weidemann played well after getting clearance from the Rebels.

Demons coach Shannon Argall said it was exciting that Butsch kicked the winning goal.

"He probably hasn't been as accurate to his own standards and had a tight one, but it was exciting to see and nice for him to nail it," Argall said.

Trailing at three-quarter time, Argall said they changed things up and reminded his players that this could be a season-defining quarter.

"They were much more efficient going forward and had a lot of the play, and we were inefficient and were turning it over at half forward," Argall said.

"We were pushing and pushing, but they would go back down the field and kick a goal on us, which was frustrating."

"We made a couple of little changes. We moved Ryan Thomas to the ruck and me to center half forward to have a bit of a focal point up there as even if I couldn't mark it, I could bring it to the ground."

"I just told the boys that sometimes at the end of the season, you can look back and say that was a season-defining moment, and a few of our senior players knew that, and that resonated with the guys as they came out, and the pressure they showed was immense and had that desire."

"It was an excellent win to finally defeat a side higher than us on the ladder and play well against them."

Cougars bring back Bennell and secure another win

Kaniva Leeor brought back Harley Bennell, and it had an immediate impact. They secured their second win of the season.

The game was tight early. Only three goals were kicked in the first half, and the Cougars took a five-point lead into halftime.

The Saints kicked six goals to three in the third quarter to take a 14-point lead into three-quarter time.

The Cougars held the Saints scoreless in the last quarter and kicked four goals to win 9.4.58 to 7.3.45.

Jock Maddern and Dylan Natt both kicked three goals apiece for the Cougars, with Hamish Bennett continuing his brilliant season with a best-on-the-ground performance. Billy King and Sam Vivian were also great for the Cougars.

For the Saints, Charlie Campbell kicked two goals, and Bernard Kealy, Dale Smith, and Heath Keatley were among their better players.

Cougars coach Jonno Hicks said it was a team performance.

"That was definitely our best team game of the year as we had contributors all across the ground, and it was a real contested effort from both teams," Hicks said.

"We were able to compete in patches and had some lapses in that third quarter, but fighting back the way we did was pleasing.

"We had an even spread of contributors, but Hamish Bennett keeps dominating the ruck, which is great to see."

Harley Bennell likes the club and is potentially looking at playing another game or two before the end of the season, and Hicks said the leadership and experience he brings is outstanding for the young players.

"He actually approached us to play again as he enjoyed himself the first time he played, especially as it was our first win of the season," Hicks said.

"The Saints put a lot of time into him, but he was still influential. He is a class player. He set up at least three or four goals and had a bit of influence on the result."

"He is a quality person to have around the club. The guys talk to him and hang off his every word. He speaks well to the group, does a good job, and is willing to share and help others."

Jai Thompson kicks ten as Harrow Balmoral dishes out footy lesson

Harrow Balmoral had another massive win, thrashing Taylors Lake by 178 points at Balmoral Reserve.

The Lakers fought hard in the first quarter and only trailed by 22 points at quarter-time. The Southern Roos were relentless in the second quarter, piling on seven goals and eleven behinds to lead by 75 points at half-time. The Lakers could only manage two points in the first half.

In the third quarter, the Lakers kicked two goals, but the Southern Roos added another seven to lead by 108 points at the main break.

The Southern Roos finished the game off strong, kicking another 11 goals in the final term to win 28.26.194 to 2.4.16.

Rhys Daffey, Cody Deutscher, and Nick Pekin all chipped in with four goals for the Southern Roos, with Will Burbury, Anthony Close, and William Plush also outstanding.

For the Lakers, Bray Cullinan was again one of their better players, with Thomas Clugston, Billy Finnigan, and Patrick Lindsey also among their best.

Southern Roos coach Jai Thompson said it was just one of those games.

"I ran hard forward from the midfield, and the ball got to my area a lot, and I managed to get on the end of a couple, which was great," Thompson said.

"It is good to see us finally gelling as a team. After the game, I told the boys that it takes a while for new players to come in and gel, but we are now getting used to each other and playing a good brand of football.

"It's easy to lose motivation in these games when you are up by a lot, but after half-time, we kept playing our brand of footy the way we want to play, and that is why the margin was huge. We never stopped."

Kalkee move to seventh with their third win of the season

At the Natimuk Showgrounds, an injury-depleted Kalkee defeated Natimuk by 63 points.

Only one goal was scored in the first quarter, with both teams bringing the heat to the contest.

The Kees gained momentum in the second quarter, booting four goals to lead by 23 points at halftime.

They kicked another three in the third term to extend the margin by 37 points before holding Natimuk goalless in the last to run out 12.14.86 to 3.5.23 winners.

Aiden Richardson kicked five goals for the Kees, with youngster Patrick Mills sensational, named best on the field. The experienced Matt Nield was also solid through the middle.

For the Rams, Zachary Smith, Kaiden Sudholz, and Archie Sudholz were their better players.

The Tigers came out strong in the first quarter, winning the contested ball and playing well despite trailing by two points at quarter-time.

They kept it tight in the second quarter, but the Swifts extended the margin to five points at half-time.

In the third quarter, the Tigers came out slow again and managed only two behinds as the Swifts kicked four goals to lead by 28 points at the last break.

The Tigers fought hard in the last quarter, but the damage was already done, with the Swifts winning 11.12.78 to 5.13.43.

Paul Summers kicked another six goals, four of which came in the last quarter, to bring his tally to 72 for the season. Tallis Miles and Chevy Elliott, the latter playing his third game for the club, were also outstanding on the day.

The Tigers had five individual goalkickers, with Matthew Roser, Dylan Thomas, and Jason Westley being their best players.

Swifts coach Brett Hargreaves said they weren't panicked at half-time.

"The Tigers challenged us in the first half and played well, and I told the boys at half-time not to panic and that if we tweaked our game a bit and became first to the ball, we would be better," Hargreaves said.

"I put it on our on-ball brigade and was critical of them as we were just giving the Tigers too much latitude and giving away too many meters and were chipping the ball away, which wasn't good enough.

"Everyone responded. We took time and space and started to win the footy, and the tide turned."

"We can't be winning by big margins every match, so the fact we were tested was a good learning curve, and we know what we can adjust moving forward."

Tigers coach Guy Smith said the boys know their best is good enough but can't maintain it for four quarters.

"We did what we were supposed to do in the first half but didn't come out firing in the third quarter," Smith said.

"It was frustrating as we are proving we can match it with the best. It's not fitness; it's more mental and something we must work on.

"Our back six was good, and we did well to minimise Summer's impact in the first half, and our strategy worked."

"We are still learning, and we will get there eventually."

The 23-year-old joined the Tigers from Berri in the South Australian Riverlands at the start of last year. He moved over for work and for his partner, who was from Ararat.

Liam Jakobi convinced him to join the club, and he became captain halfway through last season.

He immediately impacted his 15 games, kicking 32 goals and being named the best player on 13 occasions, which led him to be the Tigers'' best and fairest winner.

The Tigers hired Guy Smith as coach in 2024, which has helped Westley thrive as a leader.

Regarding the Dellar Medal, awarded to the league's best and fairest, Westley should be up there competing for the win. He has been consistent this season in the midfield, providing excellent attacking nous with 21 goals and defence when needed. More importantly, he is respected by his peers.

"This is one of my better seasons individually, and as I am getting older and more experienced, it is helping my football," Westley said.

"If I am up there in the medal, that will be good, but right now, I am only focused on the team.

"I would rather have team success and want to focus on us getting a chance to play finals football and improving as a team."

Westley said it was a special moment when he was given the captaincy.

"I used to be a quiet kid, and to come to a new club and to get appointed as captain, I am pretty stoked about that; it feels quite special," Westley said.

"We have a structure that we like to follow, and I just refresh the player's memory of the structure because if we follow that, we win games.

"Everyone knows their role and what they have to do. I tell the boys that they know what they must do and go do it, and they are a great group of people."

"I just want us to be successful; if we are, it will be pretty unreal."

"I love the club and enjoy being here."

Westley is one of Guy Smith's assistant coaches, and he speaks highly of him.

"He leads from the front and comes from a good football background," Smith said.

"He has beautiful skills on both sides of the body and is brilliant and an excellent asset to us.

"He has been unreal, leads from the front, and is continually among our best players. He wants success for the club."

"On his leadership, he says, 'Follow me, boys.' There is no better way of doing it."

Marklew is no stranger to the sport - he's played more than 200 games across numerous teams and on Saturday celebrated his 1000th match as an umpire in the senior match between Taylors Lake and Noradjuha Quantong at Dock Lake Recreation Rese

He's umpired across many leagues but is now predominately in the Horsham and Wimmera leagues.

Officiating for more than 25 years now, Marklew turned to umpiring after retiring as a player, deciding he wanted to give back to the game.

He said having the background as a player has assisted him in being an umpire.

"Having the experience playing, you know what the frustration the players are going through," Marklew said.

"It has also helped me understand the game more and the rules because the rules have changed so much over the years.

"Ex-players make great umpires."

The field umpire has many highlights when he looks back over the years.

"I've umpired nine of 10 Wimmera senior grand finals, Horsham District senior grand finals, Mallee League grand finals, and another highlight has been umpiring with my son, Leigh, in a senior grand final," he said.

"Every year over the last 25 years, I have umpired a grand final, whether it be juniors or seniors, and other highlights have been Aboriginal carnivals and interleague matches."

Marklew claimed the "Golden Whistle" award just a few years into his umpiring career. This accolade, given out by every association, is among the highest honours an umpire can win.

He's had many mentors over the years, but proving what goes around, comes around, Marklew is now a mentor himself to many aspiring and developing umpires.

"Over the last few years, I have been the coach of the umpires, coaching the development of new and up-and-coming umpires," Marklew said.

"Last year, I won an award for the State as Development Coach of the Year, which was an absolute honour.

"You don't do these things for the awards, but if they do come along, you feel proud."

But what has kept Marklew coming back season after season?

He said it's simple: the enjoyment.

And it's experiences like one just a couple of weeks ago that take the excitement to a new level.

"We took eight of our umpires to the community game at the MCG," Marklew said.

"We were lucky to walk out in front of the umpires, and one of our umpires helped us do the coin toss.

"It was an experience we will all never forget."

Over the years, Marklew has made friends with many AFL umpires, including Hayden Kennedy, a former AFL umpires coach.

Marklew said speaking of support, he wouldn't have been able to officiate as many matches as he has been if not for the support of his family.

"My wife Carolyn, my daughter Aimee, and son Leigh, without their support, I wouldn't have been able to keep on going," he said.

"Because you have games where you come home and you are a bit down or frustrated because things haven't gone well, but they have always supported me."

With three grandkids now, Marklew said retirement has been on his mind in the next couple of years, to spend more time with them, but he's trying to pass on his knowledge and skill now to future umpires.

And there's one piece of wisdom he has lived by that he will surely pass on.

"I've always maintained with players if you show them respect, that hopefully, they will show you respect in return," he said.

Marklew's parting words are of honesty: "Umpires are only human," he said.

"We make mistakes too; I've apologised to a player in a Wimmera senior grand final.

"But if you are honest with a player and own up to your mistakes, they do appreciate it."

It was an unselfish football game, with thirteen different goalkickers, and the Demons were relentless from the get-go. Kicking seven goals and seven behinds in the first quarter, they led by 49 points at quarter-time.

They kicked nine more goals in the second quarter to extend the margin to 105 at the main break and another seven in the third quarter, extending their lead to 151 points at three-quarter-time.

They didn't slow down in the last, running the game out, kicking another five goals to win 28.14.182 to 0.

Shannon Cross led the way with six goals, but the team performance stood out with thirteen different goalkickers. Elle Treloar kicked four goals, continuing on her excellent recent form, with Tahlia Barnett, Dellie Brown, and Crystal Summers all kicking three apiece, with Holly Nuske kicking two.

Tia Aylmer, Alana Bascombe, Bethany Bates, Teilah Couch, Alicia Drew, Vanilla Ika, and Tatiarna Nelson also hit the scoreboard with goals.

Shannon Cross, Catherine O'Dea, Tatiana Nelson, Tahlia Barnett, Bethany Bates, and Holly Smith were the six best players. Still, considering their excellent performance, the entire team could have been named best.

The win keeps them second on the ladder. If they defeat Tyrendarra, whom they shut out in round five next week, they will finish the year in second place and eye a full assault on the finals.

Earlier in the day, the under-18s team battled hard in their 50-point loss to Cavendish. The girls kept it tight in the first quarter, trailing by ten at quarter time. They managed their first goal in the second quarter, but Cavendish was too strong, kicking four to lead by 26 points at half-time.

In the third quarter, the girls continued to fight, but another four goals to one extended the margin to 44 points.

The young Demons kicked two goals in the last to run out the game well, eventually losing 4.2.26 to 11.10.76.

Amelia Drage kicked two goals for the Demons, with Charmaine Lockwood and Mila Payne kicking one each.

Lara Purchase was again the Demons' best player, finishing the season well alongside Greta Arnel, Adelle Weidemann, Poppy Peters, Charmaine Lockwood, and Maggie Fisher.

Youngsters selected

Greta Arnel, Poppy Peters, and Adelle Weidemann have been selected in the Hampden Football Netball League's training squad for its under-17 women's Interleague match against the Ballarat Football Netball League on July 6.