Tasmania

Southern Country Junior Football Association (SCJFA)

It’s unsure as to when the Association was either formed or when it ceased, but judging by those clubs below, there is a reasonable possibility that it may have been formed in the very early 1900’s.

The following clubs participated at varying times: Argyle Cadets, Brisbane Rovers, Crescent, Excelsior, Fitzroy, Glenorchy, Imperial, New Town, North Hobart Juniors, Sandy Bay, South Hobart, St. Georges, Standfast, Trinity, Union, Union Jack and West Hobart.

Start of the game in Tasmania

During the early convict period in Van Diemens Land, some work gangs played a form of ‘Football’ on almost a daily basis. For example, Samuel Snow, an American prisoner transported after the Canadian Rebellion of 1839, played a game of ‘Ball’ with British convicts on his road gang, during the 1840s and 1850s. Football was often among the activities included in public holiday sports meetings. Generally, scratch teams played these games and rules were likely to have been minimal (H. T. Courier 23rd Dec. 1848 – Colonial Times 20th Dec. 1850).

St. Patrick's Day Football Match

An article appeared in the Tasmanian Telegraph Newspaper on Wednesday 16th March 1859 that referred to a game of football to be played on the following day: ‘St. Patrick's Day’:

There will be a grand Football Match between two elevens; selected by T. G. Gregson and John Stokell, Esquires for 10 Pounds ($20.00), some private matches and a hack race etc. For the convenience of the inhabitants of Hobart Town, Guy’s Stage Coach will leave the Rock Hotel on the morning of Thursday and Friday at 8.00am. Returning each evening at 7 O’clock.

Fares if booked throughout: 10 shillings, and single fares 5 shillings, the former available for Friday if required.

Very first reported game in Hobart

A club by the name of New Town was formed in 1864, albeit somewhat dubious as a ‘so called’ club. These were basically groups of men that made up teams that would in turn challenge each other to a game.

On 21st April 1866, 11 members of New Town Football Club played a team of 14 boys from the Hutchins School. The match was the first reported game by the Mercury Newspaper on Tuesday 24th April. The eleven played well considering their want of practice, and for the School, E. Nairn (captain) and J. Buckland, distinguished themselves in all points of the game, while the forward play of Nicholas, a little man, but a ‘big’ player, Fisher, Butler and O’Connor were worthy of mention.

First reported organised game in Hobart

The first newspaper report on an organised game played was when the Mercury gave a short account of a game played between New Town and the Hobart Town Football Club, on Saturday, 26th May 1866 at the Battery Ground in Hobart. The game was conducted over two Saturday’s with the match finishing in a tie, one goal apiece, and a Mr. G. Wright was New Town’s goal scorer. It was a rudimentary affair with each team providing voluntary people to act as umpires and there were no boundary umpires, so when the ball went ‘out-of-bounds’ the closest player to the ball would be deemed the person to throw the ball back into play. Sometimes it would be kicked into play.

New clubs formed around Hobart

New clubs were formed, Stowell team, playing in a paddock near Battery Point, took the field about 1866, and a club with the magnificent name of Break O’Day appeared.

First STFA roster match

City Football Club and New Town Football Club played the very first official game in 1879, under the banner of the STFA. The match took place on 21st June.

First season of the STFA

In the first season of the STFA there were only six roster matches played, with 15 players per team and New Town had a total of just 27 players to represent the club over the course of the season.

First organised senior football competition in Hobart

The first organised senior football competition in Hobart, known as the Southern Tasmanian Football Association (STFA) was established on 21st June, 1879. the association adopted Melbourne rules and matches were played on upper and lower cricket grounds and on the old battery ground. other clubs to join the new competition were: Holebrook, Cricketers, Railway and City.

No grand-final played

Where there is a reference to ‘No grand-final played’ applied to rules of the game at that time. Where a team with a substantial points lead at the conclusion of roster matches, was declared the Premier.

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. City Football Club was declared Premier.

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. Cricketers Football Club was declared Premier.

Football on the North West Coast commenced

Football on the North West Coast commenced when Formby and Latrobe clubs formed a 12 a side teams. Results of this first match: Latrobe 3.20 to Formby 0.15.

First inter-colonial games

In July, Hotham (now North Melbourne) 4.18 (42) defeated a Northern Combined team 0.2 (2) in Launceston.

On Tuesday 5th July, Hotham came to Hobart to play a representative STFA team. The Association team was made-up of players selected from Country Teams namely, Oatlands and Richmond and Hobart based clubs North Hobart, Railway, Cricketers, City and New Town. The STFA won the match, its first win in an Inter-Colonial game 3.15 (33) to Hotham 2.16 (28).

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. Railway Football Club was declared Premier.

Essendon visited Tasmania

Visiting VFA club Essendon, played four matches in Tasmania.

Match No. 1, Wednesday 23rd August 1882 Essendon played a Northern Tasmanian team, selected from Launceston clubs plus Ross and Longford clubs. The game was played on what was known as the 'Western Swamp'. Essendon scored 8 goals to Northern Tas. 2 goals.

Match No. 2, Saturday 26th August, Essendon played a combined STFA team in Hobart. Essendon won 6.15  (51) to STFA 2.18  (30).

Match No. 3, played 3rd September in Hobart (first ever Tasmanian team)  the team was chosen from the North, North West and South of the State Tasmania  v  Essendon. Scores Essendon 6.27  (63) to Tasmania 1.8  (14).

North v South Games

North v South games commenced on an official basis, and the first of these combined games was won by the South: 6.18 (54) defeated North: 1.10 (16).

First recorded game at Burnie

Latrobe club, on the North West Coast, played a team from Waratah in the first recorded game at Burnie, on the old Montello racecourse, now a housing development.

Waving of White Flags

Both the Southern Tasmanian Football Association and Northern Tasmanian Football Association introduced the waving of white flags to signal either a goal or point by goal umpires.

STFA buys Risdon Ground

The STFA purchased the Risdon Ground for £650/-/- ($1300.00).

The Risdon ground was situated near the railway station adjacent to the old horse-racing track at New Town (Cornelian Bay grounds).

Northern Tasmanian Football Association (NTFA)

The NTFA emerged in 1886 to become one of three major competitions in Tasmania and reigned supreme in the North/North-East region of the State until 1986, when a State-wide competition commenced.

From within the centre of Launceston the NTFA was formed to create a strong competition with the following member clubs: Launceston, Fitzroy, North Launceston, Longford, Scottsdale, South Launceston, East Launceston, City, Essendon, Cornwell, City South, Deloraine and George Town.

Surveyed in 1826, Launceston was named after a town in the United Kingdom, the birth place of Philip Gidley King, third Governor of the Colony of New South Wales. In the 1830’s, Launceston was a whaling port and agricultural district. It was proclaimed a Municipality in 1852, a town in 1858 and a City in 1888. Launceston was the first city in Australia to have underground sewers, and the first City to be lit with hydroelectricity.

Tasmania team travels to Victoria

In 1887 a Tasmania team travelled to Victoria for the first time to play a series of matches in the Victorian capital. The team played six matches, won three, drew one and suffered two defeats.

NTFA Premier

No premiership played, but City was declared premiers based on heading the roster ladder. South Launceston were declared runners-up.

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. Railway Football Club was declared Premier.

Tasmania team travels to NSW

A Tasmanian team visited New South Wales.

Interstate visting teams

Norwood (SA) and Essendon (VIC) visited Tasmania.

Devon Football Association (DFA)

Formed on 4th May 1891 at Latrobe, the Association operated for three seasons with the following member clubs: Brittania, Devonport, Latrobe Juniors, Latrobe Seniors, Railton, Sheffield and Ulverstone.

Latrobe club won the first two premierships in 1891 and 1892. Unfortunately, there is no information available as to which club won the last premiership played in 1893.

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. Holebrook Football Club was declared Premier.

Southern Tasmanian Junior Football Association

The Southern Tasmanian Junior Football Association was formed. It was during this early period of changes to the face of football, that the reference ‘Junior’ referred to second tier competitions. There was no junior football as we know it today.

Player Clearances

A player clearance system was introduced in Tasmania.

NWFA formed

North Western Football Association was formed on the North West Coast. Its headquarters were at Devonport.

NWFA Clubs

Foundation teams included: Mersey, Latrobe, Devonport, Wesley Vale, and Ulverstone.

STFA Clubs

Southern Tasmanian Football Assoication included: City, Railway, Kingston, Fitzroy and North Hobart.

STJFA Clubs

The Southern Tasmanian Junior Football Association (second tier competition) was made-up of clubs : Fitzroy Imperials, Union, Glenorchy, Union Jack, West Hobart and North Hobart.

Huon Football Association

The Huon Football Association commenced with only three clubs: Huonville, Franklin and Liverpool.

New scoring system

The system of scoring points was introduced, with six points for a goal and one point for a behind. The team finishing with the most amount of points was declared the winner.

STFA name change

STFA changed name to Southern Tasmanian Football League.

STFL changed back to STFA and joined with STJFA

STFL changed name back to Southern Tasmanian Football Association. The Junior body voted to have the word ‘Junior’ erased from its constitution. Which meant there would be no Junior body in Hobart. The old Junior Association became the Southern Tasmanian Football Association. This meant that clubs had seniors and seconds in their competitions

STFA Clubs

Clubs in the STFA were: Lefroy, North Hobart, Glenorchy and Wellington, with Summerton withdrawing after one season.

Derwent Association

The Derwent Association reformed after several years in recess.

Glenorchy leaves STFA

Glenorchy withdrew from the STFA, leaving only three clubs.

Fitzroy visit

VFL club Fitzroy visited the State to play two matches against the STFA winning both games.

Derwent Association

The Cananore club was formed this year and joined the Derwent Association, one of several associations playing in and around Hobart.

Essendon visit

Essendon also played two matches in both the North and South of the State, winning both games.

Collingwood visit

Highlight of the season was a visit of VFL powerhouse club Collingwood who played two games in Launceston and Hobart. The result of the Southeners match was Collingwood 17.17 (119) defeated STFA 8.11 (59).

Crescent Football Club

The Crescent club was formed and joined the Derwent Association.

South Melbourne visit

South Melbourne came to Tasmania to play two game. But after the first game against the NTFA, the Southern match was cancelled due to an outbreak of smallpox in the capital.

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. Wellington Football Club was declared Premier.

Boundary umpires

Boundary umpires were introduced in both the South and North.

Wednesday Afternoon Football Association (WAFA)

Was a popular mid-week competition that provided opportunities in the main, for those who worshipped footy, but worked on weekends. It also brought together region against region, rivalry yes, but on a more social level.

What helped make the competition successful, was that Wednesday afternoon was a half-day holiday during the early 1900’s. Although it was a great community and recreational sporting event, it succumbed to the ever changing dynamics of the game and that of communities, it too ceased to operate after 1912.

Clubs that participated included: Butchers, Drapers, Grocers, GPO, Ironmongers and Tramways.

Apart from Drapers being the initial premiership winners in 1904, Butchers won five consecutive premierships from 1909 until the Association became defunct in 1913.

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. Wellington Football Club was declared Premier.

STFL Teams

Southern Tasmanian Football League, its three member clubs namely, New Town, Cananore and University.

Question of New Town joining STFA

The matter of admitting New Town Football Club to the competition was discussed at length, and further consideration postponed pending more information from the suburban club.

Essendon and St Kilda visit

VFL clubs Essendon and St. Kilda arrived in Hobart to play the STFA and convincingly won both games.

Roster

The roster was drawn up to accommodate the three teams participating and the North Hobart club was to play Lefroy in a season opener on the coming Saturday, with Wellington meeting the former the following week.

STFA pre-season meeting

A matter of interest was the pre-season meeting of the Southern Tasmanian Football Association, conducted on Wednesday evening 19th April, where Mr. C. J. Eady was elected Chairman for the year, and Mr. W. H. Gill again filled the post of Secretary.

STFA Premier

No grand-final played. North Hobart Football Club was declared Premier.

Inter-State Matches

VFL Clubs Fitzroy and Collingwood visited Tasmania for a challenge against a STFA side made up from the following selected players: E. Russell, Lee, Mills, Orpwood, Langford, Hill, P. Dodge, Heathorn, Bridges, Brain, Burrell, Weare, P. Williams, Carroll, Able, Anderson, & Laurie Lobdale. Emergencies: C. Williams, Cook, W. Dodge, Donoghue, Searl and C. Williams.

The Fitzroy match was held in June and the visitors won comfortably 6.18 (54) to the STFA 5.5 (35).

The second match against Collingwood in August was a whitewash for the touring team, giving the locals a lesson in what the game was all about. Collingwood 16.8 (104) to the STFA scoring the same outcome as its previous game, 5.5 (35).

Tasmanian Football League

Probably the most significant decision to emerge from the Australian Football Council (AFC) conference was that it recognised the TFL as being the controlling body for football in Tasmania, which in turn gave the TFL a right to have two delegates to the AFC conferences. There was however, a stipulation that one of the two Tasmanian Delegates be appointed from the NTFA.

Mr. W. H. Gill was elected as the TFL’s representative to its Executive Committee.

When the TFL was formed there would be only three clubs competing, Lefroy, North Hobart and Derwent Football Clubs. The Derwent Club had replaced Wellington Football Club that disbanded at the end of the 1905 season. 

TFL Premier

No grand-final played. Derwent Football Club was declared Premier.

TFL club changes

Wellington Football Club became defunct and was replaced by the Derwent Football Club.

STFA change of name

A new resolution was written into the constitution this year to change the name Southern Tasmanian Football Association to the Tasmanian Football League. 

Intra-State matches

There were two games played between the TFL and NTFA, the first in Launceston on 3rd June, where the League 10.14 (74) defeated the Northerners 7.9 (51).

The return match was also won by the TFL 8.13 (61) defeated NTFA 6.11 (47).

Inter-State matches

Top VFL clubs Melbourne and St. Kilda visited the State for two games against the TFL. In the match against Melbourne, the League scored 4.6 (30) to Melbourne 14.14 (98) and in the other game against St. Kilda (which at the time was the leading club in the VFL competition) the TFL scored 8.11 (59) to the Saints 17.15 (117).

North East-Coast Football Association (NECFA)

The NECFA was the parent association to 2 later association.

In June of 1907 at the quaint North Eastern Tasmanian township of Derby, the NECFA was formed. Its location rests at the intersection of the Ringarooma and Casade Rivers.

Derby was established in the mid–1870’s during a mining boom and the town has since flourished as an adventure and tourism destination.

Although teams came and went on an almost regular basis, it nevertheless remained a strong competition and produced many a top player.

Competing teams were many between 1907 and 1921: Alberton, Branxholm, Bridport, Cameron, Derby, Derby City, Fingal, Gladstone, Legerwood, Lilydale, Militia, Moorina, North Scottsdale, Pioneer, Pioneer-Gladstone, Ringarooma, Scottsdale, Scottsdale Crows, South Mt. Cameron, St. Helens, Wanderers, Warrentinna and Winnaleah.

TFL Premier

No grand-final played. Lefroy Football Club was declared Premier.

NTFA Premier

No premiership played, but City was declared premiers based on heading the roster ladder. North Launceston were declared runners-up.

NWFL formed

North Western Football League formed on the coast on 8th August., with boundaries from Latrobe to Burnie.

NWFL Clubs

Teams in the League were: Latrobe, Penguin and Ulverstone.

ANFC Jubilee Carnival (Victoria) - First National Carnival

Victoria was host State for the 1908 Carnival that included representation from New Zealand. The carnival was conducted under a two section system as indicated by the below carnival ladder and played at the MCG:

‘A’ Section

‘B’ Section

New Zealand player G. Gillett, played Rugby Union for the New Zealand All Blacks.

Australian football celebrated its Golden Jubilee Year (1858 -1908)

In 1908 and the Australian Football Council marked the occasion by conducting a Jubilee Carnival in Melbourne. This was the first ever Australian Championships played and Tasmania surprised all with their performance throughout the series 

Turmoil on North West coast

At a special ‘Disputes’ meeting of the North Western Football Association (controlling body on North West Coast) the Ulverstone club was disqualified and Latrobe, which supported Ulverstone in the dispute, withdrew from the competition. When no reconciliation was possible, Ulverstone and Latrobe combined with Penguin to form the North Western Football League.

The NWFA continued with its member clubs from the Western end of the coast.

On 17th April, both the NWFA and NWFL applied to the TFL for affiliation. The NWFA was accepted, but the NWFL was refused because Ulverstone and Latrobe were disqualified clubs.

After the TFL had sent a delegate to the coast to help resolve the dispute. The TFL finally recognised the NWFL only for the purpose of transfers and clearances and not as the controlling body of football on the coast.

TFL delegates heard appeals from both clubs and the Association and after several weeks made the following decision, (a) Appeal from Ulverstone was upheld on the grounds that the disqualification was imposed after the resignation had been accepted by the NWFA. (b) Latrobe: That the TFL considers that the fine imposed on the Latrobe club, having been paid, such club disqualification should upon application to the NWFA, be forthwith withdrawn by such Association and failing removal, the appeal be upheld and the disqualification be removed by the TFL.

Following this, the TFL advised both the NWFA and NWFL to get together and form a new strong Union. In 1910 the North Western Football Union was formed as the governing body of football on the North West Coast.

TFL State Premiership

The official State Premiership commenced in 1909 between premiers of the TFL and NTFA, and the State final was played between the two. 

It wasn’t until 1950 when Premiers of the NWFU joined, thus created a rotational format, ie one League would host and automatically qualify for the final, and the other two Leagues would play-off in a preliminary final, with the winner progressing to the final.

During the course of the competition there were several interruptions, mainly caused through disputes. Falling patronage became a serious concern and eventually, the State Premiership series came to an end in 1978. 

Portland Football Association (PFA)

Was formed in 1909 in the Cape Portland district of the Dorset Municipality. Its located near the North-Eastern tip of Tasmania. The cape points west across Ringarooma Bay where the Ringarooma River empties into the Tasman Sea.

Portland is named after Duke of Portland by Matthew Flinders during his 1798 circumnavigation of Tasmania. Renowned for its rugged coast-line and beautiful terrain, its green pastures and stunning sand beaches are a must.

From 1909 though to 1951 when the Association went unto recess. It catered for several teams from the North East region including: Anchor, City, Georges Bay, Lottah, Miners, Pyengana, St, Helens,  Union Rovers and Weldborough.

NTFA Premier

No premiership played, but Launceston was declared premiers based on heading the roster ladder. North Launceston was declared runners-up.

TFL Triangular Series

Matches once again were played between the NTFA, TFL and the NWFU, in what became known as the TFL Triangular Series.

Norwood and Melbourne visit

Norwood (SA) and VFL club Melbourne arrived to play matches against the TFL. Victory was attained by the League in the match against Norwood, but the TFL had to concede to Melbourne.

Southern Tasmania Football Association - 1910 (STFA)

Formerly known as the Hobart Junior Football Association, and renamed the Southern Tasmania Football Association, it only lasted one season. There were just three teams that played in 1910: Brisbane Rovers, Crescent and Excelsior. Its sole premiership was won by the Excelsior team.

NWFU

The NWFU became responsible for the management of football in the North-West region.

Competing clubs in the inaugural season were: Burnie, Latrobe, Mersey, and Ulverstone.

It appears that several teams joined at varying times thereafter namely: A.P.P.M., Circular Head, Cooee, Devonport, Diggers, East Devonport, Penguin, Smithton and Wynyard,

Hodgman Shield

Campaina and Richmond were the only two sides recorded.

Corumbene Trophy

This was donated by Robert Shoobridge. The Shoobrigde name is well known as early settlers to the area. The teams involved were; New Norfolk, Lachlan, Hawthorn, Upper Derwent, New Norfolk Juniors and Valleyfield.

The final was played at the Redlands Estate in Plenty which is now a major cherry farm and distillery. New Norfolk went premiers, kicking 6.3.39 defeating Upper Derwent, 3.7.25.

Another interesting footnote is Valleyfield is a property located on the Lyell Highway, over the Derwent River and was established by the Warner family as part of the early settlement to the area with the family still living there today and is home to Tasmania’s first female Governor, her husband Richard and their family.

Islington Trophy

Only two teams have been recorded, Parattah and Whitford.

Robert Crawford Trophy

A competition played in the most southern area of the state and the two teams listed were Southport, the winners and Hastings.

White Trophy

A competition involving Nugent, Runnymede, Spring Bay and Buckland, with Runnymede holding the trophy.

Oatlands Shield

Only Sorell and Oatlands recorded as competing that year.

Tullah Football Association

In recess.

Kingston Football Club new colours

Kingston Football Club changed their colours from Blue and White to Green and White.

NWFA

Four sides involved in the competition, namely Wesley Vale, Premiers, Devonport Juniors, Runner’s -up, Don and Commercials.

Burnie Football League

Comprised of Ridgley, Wanderers, Burnie and Yeoman.

West Devon Junior Association

Premiers that season were Kindred who defeated Forth by 7 points. Also in the competition were Leven and Sprent.

Scottsdale Football Association

The only information provided was City, who wore Red and White, 5.8.38 defeated Scottsdale 2.4.16 whose colours were Red and Black.

Devonport Junior Football Association

Only Hartford was recorded as being involved.

Dalton Trophy

The clubs involved were Huonville, Sandfly, Kermandie (captained by F. Drake) and Woodbridge.

Ellis Shield

Although nothing recorded, it would appear the donor(s) were strong supporters of the game. Competing teams were: Kempton, Bothwell, Bagdad, and Brighton Junction.

Lyell Miner’s Football Association

One game played each Sunday: Gormanston, Linda, North Lyell and Imperials.

Holebrook Association

Buckingham (Premiers), Training College and New Town Rovers.

Metropolitan Football Association

Bellerive, season Premiers, 13.15.93 defeated Glebe, 2.3.15. Glebe jumpers were yellow and blue with white knickers. Also included Battery Point and all games played at Bellerive oval.

Zeehan Football Association

Commonwealth (wore blue and white), Zeehan and Silver King.

Lyell District Association

Railway, season Premiers, 8.11.59 defeated Mechanics (no score provided) and St.Marys.

A name that was to become very well known in later years through his involvement with the TANFL/TFL, Major Vic Geard was a member of Mechanics that season.

Derwent Association

East Hobart, New Town and Trinity.

Portland Football Association

Lottah, season Premiers, Gould’s Country and St. Helens. Teams were 16 a side.

Southern Tasmanian Junior Football Association

Excelsior, formerly Hobart Central, (Premiers), Crescent and Brisbane Rovers who were introduced when Collingwood disbanded.

West Wellington Association

Stanley, Forest, Smithton and Irish Town.

Suburban Football Association

D.R.C., Premiers, Imperial, (previously Lefroy Juniors), and Rialannah. Records indicate all games played at Lindisfarne ground.

Medhurst Association

Westbury Wanderers (Premiers) and Deloraine.

Ellis Dean Trophy

This competition was the first time the trophy had been given with New Norfolk, Hawthorn, Derwent and Lackworth involved.

TFL Premier

No grand-final played. Cananore Football Club was declared Premier.

NWFU formed

1910 was an important year for football in general as the differences in the North and North West were healed, with the formation of the North Western Football Union at Latrobe on 3rd May, as a new governing body of football on the coast following dissatisfaction with the NWFA.

NWFU Roster started 14 May

First roster matches played on 14th May. With teams from Latrobe, Mersey, Ulverstone, Penguin and Wesley Vale competing. Although Wesley Vale withdrew early in the season.

Ulverstone 1st Premiers

Ulverstone won the NWFU’s first premiership.

Second AFC National Carnival

The second AFC Carnival conducted in Adelaide was successful from Tasmania’s view point, as it finished in third position on the points table behind carnival winner South Australia and Victoria second.

NWFU Clubs

The make-up of the NWFU had chanced from the previous season ie: Mersey, Latrobe, Ulverstone and Devonport joined from a local Junior association. Penguin withdrew from the Union and entered the Burnie Football League.

BFL Clubs

The Burnie Football League consisted of: Yeomen, Wynyard, Wanderers, and Ridgley until Penguin joined.

Inter-State visits

Three Inter-State clubs came to Hobart to play one game each against the League.

The result of which, was a morale boosting year for the TFL when its combined League team defeated VFL club Melbourne in Hobart. On the deficit side, Port Adelaide (SA) and Richmond (VFL) won their respective games. Scores were : TFL 11.14 (80) defeated Melbourne 9.8 (62), Port Adelaide 7.13 (55) defeated TFL 6.6 (42) and Richmond 11.11 (77) defeated TFL 8.9 (57)

State premiership abandoned

This years State premiership was abandoned when NTFA premiers Launceston, caused a sensation by refusing to take the field against TFL premiers Cananore, following a dispute with the League over the appointment of the central umpire for the match. The League endeavoured to replace the original umpire engaged, but no avail. This did not suit Launceston and the match was cancelled. The action of Launceston was reported to the NTFA, which took up the position of supporting the offending players in their action.

Finally, the League, as controlling body of football in the State, took action and disqualified the Launceston players, until such time as the League thought that such disqualification should be lifted.

NWFU Premiers

Latrobe declared Premiers and Mersey runners-up.

Wanderers joins the NWFU

Another change took place with the NWFU when its four clubs were joined by Wanderers from the Burnie Football League.

Shortage of players due to World War 1

Before the 1914 season was over, the effects of World War 1 made it difficult for clubs to assemble full teams for competition each week, as many players had enlisted for service. But despite the loss of so many fine players, the League was able to complete the season in a satisfactory manner.

AFC Carnival -Third National Carnival

This was the third such carnival conducted by the Australian Football Council and it was conducted in Sydney and won by Victoria. The result for Tasmania was not as encouraging as first hoped, as it fell far below what was achieved at the previous carnival.

World War 1 caused mayhem for Tasmanian Football

The three TFL clubs found it very difficult to field reasonable teams on a weekly basis. Mainland clubs were unable to visit Tasmania. The TFL and NTFA officials decided not to play a State premiership in 1915.

At the end of the season the following players had enlisted for the Armed Service:

Lefroy: Bailey, I. Margetts, N. Allison, C. Abey, T. W. Simpson. W. Abel, F. Burton, B. Kilmartin, R. Totham, D. Nichols, F. Green, L. Barnett, Newman, E. Smith, Townley

Cananore: Randall, Clennett, Hope (killed in action), Lipscombe, Turner, Freeman, Brownell, C. Hannigan (killed in action), Westwood, Shaw, Pennyquick, Bowen.

North Hobart: A. Aulsebrook (killed in action), L. Chambers, E. Russell, A. Bucirde, K. Moore, W. Jack, K. Mackey, Ward (killed in action), V. Shirley, A. Stanton, H. Brain, Mahoney, W. D. Leitch.

NWFU abandones games

Football abandoned until 1919 because of World War 1.

Wanders disqualified

At this time, the Wanderers club was disqualified, because of a non-payment of dues and returned to the Burnie Football League.

1916 - 1918 World War 1 – intervenes

The three major football bodies in Tasmania attended a meeting to discuss the future of the game. The result was a resolution that football be discontinued until the end of the War.

Football resumed after the war under difficult conditions

The resumption of football in Hobart and most other centres after the War, followed a three year lapse of the game. But if that wasn’t enough, the population had to contend with an epidemic of Influenza that swept Australia and rage throughout Tasmania later in the season, football had to be cancelled according to health authorities advice, which applied to all forms of sport that attracted crowds.

New Town reformed

New Town Football Club reformed.

NTFA no competition

No competition due to Influenza outbreak that swept Australia.

1920 War and epidemic recovery

The recovery process was a prosperous one for the game as most clubs around the State had survived well under the circumstance. A ‘remarkable resilience’ is probably the most apt description to describe the rebound by the peoples of Tasmania to the incredible impost of War and an epidemic.

Visiting teams from South Australia

Two clubs from South Australia visited Tasmania, the first was West Torrens that played the TFL in a close encounter with the TFL winning by three points 10.13 (73) to 9.16 (70). The other match also went to the TFL beating West Adelaide 12.17 (89) to 10.9 (69).

Wilmot Football association (WFA)

Wilmot was settled in the 1890’s, proclaimed in 1903 and gazetted as a locality in 1965. The small rural township of Wilmot was named after Sir John Eardley-Wilmot, Lieutenant of Van Diemens Land from 1843 until 1846.

Wilmot is seated in the centre of some of the richest farming communities in the Mountain region of Devonport’s Municipality, South-West of the City.

The WFA was formed in 1920 and during the course of operating its competition, had taken on board both the Kentish and Roland Football Associations, when they merged with WFA in 1949. This practice was common-place during the latter part of the 1980’s through to mid-1900’s.

MFA member clubs: Barrington, Cement Rovers, Rovers, Sheffield, West Kentish and Wilmot, 

The WFA merged with the North West Football Union in 2015.

Cullens Football Association

This Association was formed approximately 1920 or so, and it’s equally as vague as to its departure from the game around the early 1970’s.

The CFA was regarded as a prominent supporter of community welfare and promoted itself as a strong contributor of well-being for men in the respective regions it represented.

Member clubs included: Claremont, Glenorchy, Brighton, Bridgewater, Derwent, Sorell, Huonville and New Norfolk.

During its existence it, like many other Associations faced ongoing challenging tasks, particularly in latter years, that ultimately forced it to close its doors. Factors such as amalgamations, falling player participation rate, population demographics, public interest and clubs leaving to other associations.

New Norfolk and Glenorchy were the dominant premiership wining teams. New Norfolk held the record with six premierships to its credit.

Fourth National Carnival

Fourth National Carnival, held in Perth (WA) and won by West Australia.

Tasmania successfully competed in the minor carnival in Sydney and defeated New South Wales.

TFL adds fourth team

The TFL include a fourth club, New Town Football Club, into its ranks to complete an even competition, that automatically alleviated the bye of the previous three team competition.

A highlight was the positive result for first comer to the TFL where New Town Football Club won the opening match of the season.

Interstate visting teams

During the season matches were played against three visiting mainland teams, with the TFL winning one game. Results were: South Adelaide 12.9 (81) defeated TFL 8.13 (61), TFL 14.9 (93) defeated Glenelg (SA) 10.19 (79), Richmond (VFL) 10.9 (69) defeated TFL 9.12 (66).

North Hobart Oval

Finally, the TFL received approval for the usage of the North Hobart Oval, for its headquarters and roster matches. On the basis of 20% of gross takings, plus 71/4% of all members tickets, with a minimum amount payable of £100 per season.

North Eastern Football Association (NEFA)

Was formed in 1922. NECFA clubs carried over to the new Association and were joined by new clubs Saints and Rovers.

North Hobart forfeits game against Cananore

On 11th August the North Hobart club failed to appear for its match against Cananore, claiming the TFL had been unreasonable in imposing a penalty on captain Percy Martyn, after declaring himself unfit for the North verses South match the previous week. He was suspended for two roster matches. North Hobart was fined £15 ($30) and the match was awarded to Cananore.

Re-introduction of the Triangular Series

Saw the re-introduction of the Triangular Series between the three major bodies : TFL. NTFA and NWFU.

Southern Tasmanian Country Football Association (STCFA)

Formed in 1923 the Association cared for the following clubs from varying times: Bellerive, Bothwell, Claremont, Ellendale, Glenorchy Flyers, Lachlan, Molesworth, Montacute, Montrose, New Norfolk, Oatlands, Ouse, Richmond, Rosegarland, Upper Derwent  and Waterside Workers.

Oatlands 9.11 (65) defeated Richmond 6.8 (44) to win the very first premiership in 1923. Fourteen years later, it was Ouse that scored 15.12 (102) to defeat 11.14 (80) in the last premiership played.

1937 and the STCFA competition came to a close when it entered into recess.

New Town Oval

The TFL secured the New Town Oval for the season on the same rental basis as North Hobart Oval.

Tasmania selection issue for carnival team

Highlight of the season was the staging of the fifth AFL Carnival in Hobart – the first in Tasmania.

When the final Tasmanian team was being chosen, the League sent an invitation to through to the NWFU for Ivor Warne-Smith to join the team at the League’s expense.

The Union refused to endorse the application and as a result Warne-Smith was lost to the carnival team.

Leven Football Association (LFA)

Founded in 1924, Leven is a small tourist centre known locally as Leven Canyon. It’s located on the North-West Coast line of Tasmania and is 42 kilometres from the town of Ulverstone.

Leven was built on the banks of the Leven River, which runs through 300-metre limestone cliffs, carved through the Loongana Range.

The LFA was formed in the first instance to cater for teams in the Ulverstone Municipality. Over time the LFA became a solid feeding-ground for clubs in both the NWFU and NTFA, but equally as important, for Ulverstone. After 92 years the LFA folded in 2016.

Clubs that joined the competition over the seasons included the following: Castra, Devonport Saints, East Ulverstone, Forth, Gawler, Kindred,Mersey Valley Workers Club, Motton Rovers, Motton-Preston, North Motton, Preston, Railton, South Riana, Sprent, Turners Beach, Ulverstone Juniors, Ulverstone Rovers, Upper Castra, West Ulverstone, Western Juniors, Wilmot and Zeehan,

W. H. Gill memorial Medal

This was the first year a ‘Best & Fairest’ award was presented, known as the W. H. Gill memorial Medal. The gold medal was donated by News Ltd. The first player to win the award was ‘Leisha’ Smith, of the Lefroy Club.

Interstate visits

Two VFL Clubs, Essendon and Carlton came to Hobart in 1926. Essendon played one match against the TFL. Carlton played local TFL club New Town. Game results were : TFL 6.12 (48) defeated Essendon 4.9 (33). After one of the best games seen in recent years Carlton ran out winners 16.10 (106) to New Town 12.8 (80)

South Australian club Norwood also arrived, but did not play a match.

Cananore TFL & State Premiers

Cananore won the TFL premiership and then defeated NTFA premiers Launceston for State honours.

New Tasmanian goalkicking record

J. Brain from Cananore Football Club set a new Tasmanian goalkicking record of 71 for the season.

ANFC National Conference

During the 1927 ANFC Carnival conducted in Melbourne, the ANFC held a National Conference for all States, to consider several constitutional changes on rules and regulations. Representing Tasmania at the Conference was Mr. William Leitch. Among other matters, and at the behest of the ANFC, the States were required to include into their respective names, the words ‘Australian National’.

From that point onwards the TFL became Tasmanian Australian National Football League (TANFL). 

Cananore TFL & State Premiers

Cananore repeated its previous season good form by defeating Lefroy in the TANFL grand final (third premiership in a row) and went on to beat North Launceston in the TFL State final 12.20 (92) to 10.15 (75).

Australian School Boys Carnival

The Australian School Boys carnival was conducted in Hobart. Tasmania beat every State with the exception of South Australia.

TANFL Best & Fairest

Ken Roberts of the New Town club, won the TANFL Best & Fairest award.

Triangular Series

In the annual Triangular Series, results were: NTFA 13.12 (90) defeated the TANFL 8.15 (63 in Launceston. The TANFL 17. 18 (120) defeated NTFA 7.10 (52) in Hobart, a crowd of 14,00 patrons saw the game which was a record between the two leagues. In the third deciding match the TANFL 9.20 (74) defeated the NWFU 7.11 (53) at Burnie. The TANFL was successful in winning the series.

Visiting teams

Visiting mainland teams included East Fremantle (WA) and VFL club Carlton. In the first match the TANFL Combined team defeated East Fremantle 8.14 (62) to 7.12 (54). This was a most satisfying experience as later in the season, East Fremantle won the WA premiership. The second match1Carlton 5.13 (103) defeated TANFL 13.9 (87).

TANFL Best & Fairest

George Cole of the New Town club won the TANFL Best & Fairest award the Wilson Bailey medal.

Triangular Series

The TANFL repeated its 1928 performance in winning the Triangular Series. Results of games : In Hobart TANFL 17.7 (109) defeated NTFA 10.23 83. In Launceston NTFA 11.10 (76) defeated TANFL 6.10 (46) and at Burnie the TANFL clinched the series 13.21 (99) to NWFU 8.9 (57. 

New TANFL season goal kicking record

North Hobar player, Allan Rait beat the goal kicking record previously held by Col. Stokes, by booting 112 goals for the season.

Triangular Series

In the TANFL Triangular series the TANFL claimed the annual Jubilee Cup, scores from the three games played were : NTFA 16.17 (113) defeated TANFL 11.10 (76), in the second match the TANFL 17.7 (109) defeated NTFA 13.9 (87), the third clash was an easy win for the TANFL 19.17 (131) defeated NWFU 8.10 (58).

William Leitch medal

The TANFL Best & Fairest award, now known as the William Leitch medal, was won by Cananore captain (former Collingwood champion) Alber Collier.

Intra-State matches

TANFL combined teams played two matches against the Huon Football Association, comfortably winning both encounters.

State premiership

TANFL premiers Cananore met NTFA premiers North Launceston in the State final and won the match by just one point.

Exciting TANFL grand final….

The TANFL grand final resulted in a drawn game between Cananore and North Hobart, with both teams finishing with the score 9.12 (66).

The grand final replay was equally as exciting but Cananore eventually held the lead to win the premiership. 

Mount Stronach Football Association (MSFA)

Little is known about this association, but its possible that it was formed in 1931 and its home is where the current Mt. Stronach Reserve is located, 4 kilometres East of the town of Scottsdale in the North- Eastern region of Tasmania.

The area is recognised for its forest density and its several popular walking tracks. The MSFA may not have been a prominent Association, but it did service the needs of closely related communities. Its opening season was 1932 and it became defunct at the end of 1936.

In the MSFA inaugural season of 1932, there were four foundation member clubs: Bridport, Foresters, Lietinna and Springfield. Shortly after, new clubs: Scottsdale Ramblers, IXL, Nabowla and Warrentinna joined.

Its opening season saw the MSFA compete with a Combined Team from its ranks, in four representative matches, winning two against Derby Football Association, one against Ringarooma Football Association and was beaten by North-Eastern Football Association in the fourth match.

MSFA premiership winners were the recipients of the Steele Cup.

Southern Tasmanian District Football Association (STDFA)

Referred to as the SDFA, this Association blended rural and suburban teams that formed a strong and vibrant competition over the years.

It had a club membership of the following: Australian Newsprint Mills, Bagdad-Mangalore, Bellerive, Bothwell, Bridgewater, Brighton, Clarence, Forcett, Glenorchy Rovers, Hamilton, Mangalore, Maydena, Maydena-Westerway, Montrose, New Norfolk, Ouse, Ouse-Wayatinah, Richmond and South Hobart.

The first premiership in 1934 was won by Glenorchy Rovers 13.5 (83) over New Norfolk 4.9 (33) and the last premiership played in 1970 saw Bothwell 11.6 (72) defeat Upper-Derwent 7.8 (50).

The competition was suspended between 1941 and 1944 as a consequence of WW11.

On resumption in 1945, the 1st post war premiership was won by New Norfolk when it easily accounted for Clarence, by scoring 12.12 (84) to 1.5 (11). 

The STDFA became defunct at the end of 1970.

TANFL record score

TANFL club Lefroy kicked a TANFL record score of 34.18 (222).

TANFL Best & Fairest

North Hobart player, Len Pye became the first player to win the TANFL Best & Fairest award on three occasions, having won the award in 1932 and 1937.

TANFL premiership record

North Hobart set a new TANFL record when it won four straight senior premierships.

World War 2

1942 –1944 TANFL in recess due to World War 2.

NTFA 1942-1944

No competition due to World War 2.

TANFL changes after the war

Both Lefroy and Cananore Clubs became defunct. Replaced by Sandy Bay and Hobart District Football Clubs.

TANFL recommenced its competition under a new ‘District’ scheme 

TANFL two new clubs

Two new Clubs namely Clarence and New Norfolk District Football Clubs entered the TANFL competition to commence in 1947.

New Town change of name

New Town changed its name to Glenorchy District Football Club.

Southern Tasmanian Football Association (STFA)

Formerly known as the Associated Youth Clubs Football Association, the (STFA) Association was formed in 1976 and the competition lasted until 1986.

It was Lachlan with a score of 14.11 (95) who beat Maydena11.9 (75) in the last grand-final played in 1986 which was played at the Hamilton Showgrounds on 5th September. It was also interesting to note that Lachlan achieved the double by winning both the inaugural and last premierships.

Association clubs were: Bothwell, Buckingham, Cambridge, Lachlan, Maydena, Metropolitan, North Derwent, Railway, Risdon Cove, Risdon Vale, Upper Derwent and West Hobart.

Tasmanian Greater Northern League (TGNL)

The NTFA had several disruptions over the years it operated in the Northern region of the State. One major change took place in 1981 when the NTFA merged with the NWFU to form the Greater Northern League (TGNL).

The TGNL came about by a merger of Northern Tasmanian Football Association and the North Western Football Union in 1981.

The concept was to have the top teams from the two major Northern competitions (NTFA & NWFU) play in one strong competition (TGNL). However, the move quickly found it had several challenges, such as a financial strain for both the Leagues and its clubs. Logistical problems of extensive travel across the Northern region of the State, and a lack of support from clubs and governing bodies. As a consequence of this, the TGNL folded after two seasons.

The TGNL competition was supported by the following competing clubs:

From NTFA:
City South Redlegs, East Launceston Demons, Launceston Blues, Longford Tigers, North Launceston Robins, Scottsdale Magpies.

From NWFU:
Burnie Tigers, Cooee Bulldogs, Devonport Magpies, East Devonport Swans, Latrobe Demons, Penguin Two Blues, Ulverstone Robins, Wynyard Cats and Smithton Saints.

TGNL ends

Following the collapse of the TGNL at the end of 1982, both the NTFA and NWFU continued their respective competitions until the end of 1986.

TFL State Wide League (TSWL)

In 1986 the TANFL had created a State wide competition. Member clubs were the existing six Southern, Clarence, Glenorchy, Hobart, New Norfolk, North Hobart and Sandy Bay. Two clubs from the NTFA namely, North Launceston and South Launceston joined to form an 8 team competition

TFL State Wide League new clubs

In 1987 the TFL State Wide League was extended to ten clubs when NWFU clubs namely Burnie Hawks (later became Burnie Dockers) and Devonport Blues (later became Devonport Power), joined to complete a true State Wide competition.

Further Change to NTFA

As a result of the TANFL (controlling body in Tasmania) deciding to introduce a State-wide competition in 1986, several clubs from both the NTFA and NWFU had committed to participate. This caused the two Northern bodies (NTFA & NWFU) to form a new body known as the Northern Tasmanian Football League (NTFL).

The inaugural season of the Northern Tasmanian Football League commenced in 1987.

Following the formation of the NTFL, the former NTFA folded in 1986.

Northern Tasmanian Football League (NTFL)

The NTFL was formed in the early part of 1987, by both the NTFA and NWFU merging to become the NTFL. This was caused as a result of the TANFL creating a Statewide competition known as the TFL State-Wide League (TSWL) that commenced in 1986.

The TANFL granted the NTFL Second Tiered Status which was retained until 1998. The home base for the NTFL was in central Devonport.

The NTFL participated in the annual Victorian Country Championships, as it happened the exercise was a financial loss, that caused the NTFL to withdraw after three years in 1989. Instead, the NTFL played matches against the TANFL Under 23’s, the Southern Football League and the Tasmanian Amateur State Team.

Teams that participated in NTFL from 1987 included: Burnie, Deloraine, East Devonport, George Town, Latrobe, Launceston, Longford, Penguin, Scottsdale, Smithton, Ulverstone and Wynyard,

Southern Tasmanian Football League (STFL)

Formed in 1996 from the old Huon Football Association and the Tasmanian Amateur Football League (Southern Division), it became known as the Southern Tasmanian Football League.

Its member clubs in 1996 that moved from the Tasmanian Amateur Football Association, were Lauderdale, Mangalore, Claremont, Lindisfarne, Lachlan, and Sorell. Clubs that joined from the Huon Football Association were, Kingston and Channel.

NTFA revitalised

There were moves afoot from the former Tasmanian Amateur Football League (Norther Division) that had folded in 1995. It applied in 1996 to use the NTFA name (that had been dormant for 10 years), but was rejected, and as a result the Tasmanian Amateur Football League ran the competition as Northern Amateurs that season.

Huon Football Association ends

When the Huon Football Association became defunct in 1997, the Hobart Football Club (formerly TFL Statewide League) joined the STFL, and Lachlan folded in the same year. Former Huon Football Association Clubs, Huonville and Franklin merged. 

Northern Tasmanian Football Association (Division 2)

Teams participating at this point in time: Campbell Town, Evandale, Fingal Valley, Old Launcestonians, Old Scotch, Perth, St. Patricks, Tamar & University/Mowbray.

NTFA reformed

In 1997, the name Northern Tasmanian Football Association was granted to be used again.

NTFA two divisions

In 1997 clubs from former Esk-Deloriane Football Association merged into the NTFA and two divisions were created: Division 1 and Division 2.

Northern Tasmanian Football Association (Division 1)

Teams competing were: Bracknel, Bridgenorth, Deloraine, George Town, Hillwood, Longford, Rocherlea, Scottsdale and University-Mowbray.

Southern Football League (SFL)

From 1998 the STFL became the Southern Football League. 

New Norfolk changes league

In 2000, New Norfolk Football Club left the State Wide League to join the SFL.

AFL Tasmania

At the conclusion of 2000 Football Tasmania was absorbed by AFL Tasmania, the new controlling body of football in Tasmania. It immediately ceased the State Wide League competition to focus on a Tasmanian team in the VFL. This move forced the former State Wide League clubs to return to their respective regional competitions.

SFL Clubs

Clubs participating in 2001 were, Brighton, Channel, Claremont, Clarence, Cygnet, Glenorchy Storm, Hobart, Huonville Lions, Kermandie, Kingston, Lauderdale, Lindisfarne, New Norfolk Hawks, North Hobart and Sorell.

State Wide League collapse

With the demise of the State Wide League collapse, the original Southern based club, Clarence, Glenorchy and North Hobart had no option, but to join the SFL in 2001. 

SFL: two tiered competition

In 2002 the SFL created a two tiered competition (i) Premier League, made-up from former State Wide League Clubs, Clarence, Glenorchy Storm, North Hobart, Hobart, New Norfolk, Kingston, Brighton and Sorell. (ii) Regional League, included the original clubs Channel, Claremont, Cygnet, Huonville Lions, Kermandie, Lauderdale and Lindisfarne.

Sorell leaves SFL Premier League

In early 2003, Sorell Football Club, a member of the SFL Premier League was forced the leave the competition and eventually went into recess.

Lauderdale promotion

Lauderdale Football Club which was elevated from the Regional League to the Premier League in 2004.

SFL two new clubs

2006 Saw the SFL gained two new clubs for its Regional League. Former Oatlands Football Association clubs Bothwell and Kempton merge to form the Central Hawks, while Triabunna Football Club also from the Oatlands association joined -up.

NTFA Division 1 Club

Teams participating at this point in time: Campbell Town, Evandale, Fingal Valley, Old Launcestonians, Old Scotch, Perth, St Patricks, Tamar & University-Mowbray.

SFL restructure

Southern Football League resumed its original (1996-1997) competition following the exit of clubs to the newly formed AFL Tasmania Tasmanian State League to commence in 2009. Clubs that left the SFL were: Clarence, Glenorchy, Hobart, Lauderdale and North Hobart.

Kermandie problems

Kermandie Football Club found itself with several problems both on and off the field and eventually entered recess in 2009. By 2010 the club had become defunct.

Channel leave SFL

Channel Football Club left the SFL and joined the Old Scholars Football Association.

AFL Tasmania re-invented a Statewide League

In 2008, AFL Tasmania re-invented a Statewide League for season 2009. SFL Premier League clubs Clarence, Glenorchy, North Hobart and Lauderdale bailed out of the SFL in preference of the new Tasmanian State League 

NTFL club changes

With the revival of the State-Wide League in 2009, five Clubs (Burnie, Devonport, Launceston, North Launceston and South Launceston) left the NTFL, which left only six clubs.

Some other clubs from the North and North-West had joined and departed the NTFL and from 2009 the NTFL was solely supported by clubs from the North-West area. 

Northern Tasmanian Football Association (Division 1) new club

Lilydale Football Club joined the Association in 2011.

Northern Tasmanian Football Association (Division 1) new club

South-Prospect Hawks Football Club Joined the Association in 2012.

Central Hawks insufficient players

Central Hawks were forced into recess due to insufficient player numbers, brought about mainly, by the Bothwell Football Club, that had merged with Kempton to form the Central Hawks, had left the SFL to rejoin the Oatlands District Football Association.

Kingston changes

Kingston became known as the Kingborough Football Club and left the SFL for the Tasmanian State League.

Northern Tasmanian Football Association (Division 1) new club

Meander Valley Football Club Joined the Association in 2014.

Fingal Valley vs Old Scotch match abandoned

n a match played 10th March, 2014, the central umpire caused the match to be abandoned prior to ½ time, due to a fight between players of both teams: Fingal Valley and Old Scotch.

As a result the:

1. The match was declared void with no premiership points awarded.
2. No best & Fairest votes awarded.
3. Fingal Valley was fined $6,000 and forfeited 24 premiership points.
4. Old Scotch was fined $4,000 and forfeited 16 premiership points.
5. Previous fines from 2013 for each Club was also imposed.
6. Until the end of season 2015, 3 Umpires plus a Reserve Umpire will be allocated to all games played between the two Clubs, with additional costs to be split equally between the two Club.
7. Until the end of season 2015, all matches between these two Clubs will be videoed from at least 2 angles and the additional cost will be equally shared between the two Clubs.

NWFL formed

As a result of participating clubs all from the north west, the NTFL changed its name to North West Football League at the end of 2014.

NWFL clubs

In 2015, both Burnie and Devonport Clubs had rejoined and by this time there were 8 teams in the NWFL.

Northern Tasmanian Football Association (Division 1) new clubs

Both Bridport and East Coast Swans Football Clubs joined the Association in 2017.

NEFU final season

The final season had only two teams competing in 12 home-and-away matches and the grand final. Winnaleagh won all games beating Scottsdale Crows.

NTFA two divisions changes

In 2018 the NTFA made a modest change to its two competitions by altering their titles: Division 1 became Premier Division and Division 2 became Division 1.

Boag’s Shield

In 2020 the NTFA informed its clubs that due to the impact of Coronavirus, the board of management decided to suspend competition for both Premier and Divion 1. However, in the interim, the NTFA had arranged an (opt-in) competition for the season known as the Boag’s Shield.

Clubs from both divisions were given the opportunity to compete.

Rocherlea, Deloraine, Bridgenorth and Bracknell from the Premier Division, and University, Scottsdale, Old Scotch, Old Launcestonians and Meander Valley from Division 1, made-up the competition, that was played at Deloraine Oval. With shorter quarters, finals over two weeks and an equaliser for Division 1 clubs.