Funding boost for football in the Kimberley

The State Government has announced it will be partnering with the AFL to deliver a co-funded $5 million boost to Kimberley footy over the next five years

The State Government has announced it will be partnering with the AFL to deliver a co-funded $5 million boost to Kimberley footy over the next five years.

Garnduwa hopes the multimillion dollar investment into local footy in the Kimberley will provide a boost to the region's growing women's competitions, in particular.

The $5 million injection was announced over the weekend, with support for remote community travel, ground lighting and female change rooms on the cards.

Our CEO Mick Albert says the significant jump in the women's comps meant clubs needed greater support for facilities and travel requirements.

"The increase in female participation in AFL football has just exploded up here - it's essentially doubled the participation rates," Mr Albert said.

"Balgo playing in the East Kimberley Football League - when they go to Kununurra that's a 1200km round trip - essentially two days on the road to play two days of footy.

According to the State Government, the plan is about reducing the hurdles faced by players in the Kimberley and ensuring the support is in place to grow the game in our north.

It will help give young players more opportunities to become the next stars, it will help players of all ages and skill levels get involved, and it will help local communities enjoy the game that so many of us love.