“Townsville’s Game Changer: The Northern Beaches Suns Launch a Groundbreaking AFL Academy”

The Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club is buzzing with excitement as they unveil the Northern Beaches Suns Development Squad, a pioneering program set to revolutionise the AFL scene in Townsville. This initiative isn’t just a sports program; it’s a beacon of hope and opportunity for young athletes aspiring to reach the pinnacle of AFL and AFLW.

Led by the esteemed coaches from the Sun’s senior squad, including the inspirational Cam Fielding, the dynamic Zack Sleeth, and the formidable David Hedlam, the Academy is tailored for aspirants aged 13 to 19. It stands as a crucial link in the journey from junior to senior levels, potentially catapulting talents to the professional stages of AFL.

Ross Henningsen, an influential figure in the AFL community, perfectly captures the essence of this initiative: “The Northern Beaches Suns Development Squad is more than just a training ground; it’s a cradle of dreams, nurturing talent and instilling values that transcend the sport.”

The selection process for the Academy is rigorous, focusing on not just skill and performance but also commitment to the Academy’s core values and a professional attitude at all levels.

As Townsville witnesses the rise of this landmark Academy, it’s not just the skills that will be honed, but the future of the sport in the region that will be reshaped.

For more information about this new exciting initiative please click here.

Northern Beaches SUNS AFL Club Inc.

Date: Saturday 25th November – 11am

Place: Main Hall – The Green – 22 Iris Lane BURDELL QLD 4818

All are welcome to attend the AGM. Following the AGM we will be holding the annual BIN KICK (Must be present at the AGM to be eligible). Bar will open at 12pm and we will be having a Sausage Sizzle.

Please find links below to the AGM Agenda, Proxy Form and Committee nomination form.

Notes:

Any additional agenda items to be emailed to The Secretary seven (7) days prior to the AGM.

All nominations to be emailed to The Secretary seven (7) days prior to the AGM.

If no written nominations are received, nominations will be taken from the floor on the day.

If you are unavailable on the day and would like someone to act on your behalf, please download the proxy form and leave with your nominated agent. 

Links to Documents:

AGM Agenda Items 2023

AGM Previous Minutes 2022

AGM Proxy Nomination Form

AGM Committee Member Nomination Form

G’day Suns supporters, players, and AFL enthusiasts! What an arvo we had celebrating the Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club Senior Presentation Awards! The turnout was immense, with a swarm of players, members, and families filling the venue to the brim. Trust us; this is one for the memory books!

A Year to Remember
Let’s kick things off with a shout-out to how fantastic the year has been for our club. Our Women’s team made us exceptionally proud by advancing into the finals—a milestone achievement that has set a high bar for the future.

Our club’s growth isn’t slowing down either; we continue to welcome new members and supporters at a cracking pace.

Honouring the Reserves
Starting with the Reserves, Isaac Trueman snagged both the ‘Leading Goal Kicker’ and the ‘Best & Fairest Winner’ awards, an incredible double achievement! Hats off to Andy Taylor for being the ‘Most Improved’ and Nathan Wescombe for being the ‘Best & Fairest Runner Up.’ A special mention for Callum Altman for ‘Best Utility Player,’ Jonte Verwey for the ‘Coaches Award,’ and Rob Sporton for ‘MVP.’

The Barling Family Takes the Cake
A big club thank you to the Barling family for winning ‘Senior Volunteer of the Year.’ Your dedication and behind-the-scenes work haven’t gone unnoticed.

Celebrating Our Women’s Team
Now, on to our Women’s team. Domeka Wilson took home the ‘Leading Goal Kicker’ award, while Chloe Holman bagged ‘Most Improved.’ Let’s hear it for our ‘Rising Star,’ Karla Duggan and ‘Coaches Award’ winner, Lauren Pichler! Jayne Farrier pulled double duty, winning the ‘MVP’ and ‘Best & Fairest Runner Up.’ Finally, Jessica McLean stood out as our ‘Best & Fairest Winner.’

Our Senior Men’s Achievements
For the Senior Men, Lachie Roach stole the spotlight as the ‘Leading Goal Kicker.’ Alex Trueman clinched ‘Best Utility Player.’ The ‘Coaches Award’ went to Leo Clun while Cam Fielding impressed everyone with his ‘MVP’ win. Up-and-comer Brok Lythgo walked away with the ‘Rising Star’ award.

Last but not least, our ‘Best & Fairest Winner’ was David Hedlam, with Nathan Wescombe as the runner-up.

Club Person of the Year and Milestones
Big ups to Locky McLean, who was voted the Optus Club Person of the Year 2023 for his remarkable contributions to the club. As for player milestones, kudos to those who reached 50, 100, 150, and 200 games. You’re the backbone of this club, and we’re rapt to celebrate you!

Representative Honours
Lastly, a huge congrats to the players who made it to the AFL Townsville Teams of the Year; you make us proud beyond words.

So here’s to the Suns, may we continue to shine brighter with each passing season. A massive thanks to everyone involved, and remember—once a Sun, always a Sun!

Below is an Extensive list of the Awards during the afternoon:

Reserves:
Reserves Leading Goal Kicker: Isaac Trueman
Reserves Most Improved: Andy Taylor
Reserves Best Utility Player: Callum Altman
Reserves Coaches Award: Jonte Verwey
Reserves MVP: Rob Sporton
Reserves Best & Fairest Runner Up: Nathan Wescombe
Reserves Best & Fairest Winner: Isaac Trueman

Senior Volunteer of the Year: The Barling family won this for all their behind-the-scenes work for the footy club.

Womens:
Womens Leading Goal Kicker: Domeka Wilson
Womens Most Improved: Chloe Holman
Womens Rising Star: Karla Duggan
Womens Coaches Award: Lauren Pichler
Womens MVP: Jayne Farrier
Womens Best & Fairest Runner Up: Jayne Farrier
Womens Best & Fairest Winner: Jessica McLean

Seniors Mens:
Senior Leading Goal Kicker: Lachie Roach
Senior Best Utility Player: Alex Trueman
Senior Coaches Award: Leo Clun
Senior MVP: Cam Fielding
Senior Rising Star: Brok Lythgo
Senior Best & Fairest Runner Up: Nathan Wescombe
Senior Best & Fairest Winner: David Hedlam

Optus Club Person of the Year 2023: Locky McLean – Voted by the club members for outstanding contributions towards the club.

Club Player Milestones:

50 Games for the Suns: Arron Edgar, Callum Altman, Keyshawn A’Hang

100 Games for the Suns: David Hedlam

150 Games for the Suns: Sam Toulson, Isaac Trueman

200 Games for the Suns: Hayen Littlejohn

Representative Honours

AFL Townsville Women’s Team of the Year: Domeka Wilson, Aroon Edgar, Jayne Farrier, Chloe Holman, Jess McLean

AFL Townsville Men’s Team of the Year: David Hedlam

Published on 17 September 2023

A wave of excitement and anticipation swept through the Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club as players, members, and families gathered to celebrate an incredible season at the recent Junior Presentation Awards. The afternoon was a testament to the club’s dedication to nurturing young talent and fostering a strong sense of community. Although the grand finals didn’t end in victory this year, the club came together to recognise outstanding achievements and the promising future of their junior stars.

U7 Superstars and AusKick: Building the Foundation:
The club’s youngest stars, the U7 Superstars and AusKick teams, were applauded for their enthusiasm and potential. These young athletes are the future of the club, and their energy and passion for the game are truly inspiring.

U9.5’s Reds and Yellows: Coaches’ Awards:
In the U9.5’s category, Chance Martin, Jessica Krause, and Bennett Darr received the Coaches’ Awards, recognizing their exceptional dedication and skills on the field.

U11.5 Reds and Yellows: A Year of Growth:
The U11.5 Reds and Yellows showcased their growth and determination throughout the season. Owen Swancutt, Grayson Woods, Ryan Steel, Max Nathan, Chance Saunders-Price, and Alexander Eckel were acknowledged for their Most Improved, Most Consistent, and Coaches’ Awards.

U13.5’s: A Bright Future Beckons:
The U13.5’s division displayed remarkable talent, with Jonas Vack leading the goal-kicking charts with an impressive 47 goals. The awards highlighted outstanding achievements:

Most Improved: Liam Wescombe
Best Utility Player: Tyler Hewitt
Most Valuable Player: Joel Krause
Coaches Award: Cameron McLean
B & F Runner Up: Charley Bales
Best & Fairest: Spencer Bales

U14.5 Youth Girls: Empowering Young Athletes
The club’s Youth Girls divisions have been instrumental in promoting gender diversity in the sport. Notable award recipients included:

Most Improved: Lilly Taylor
Best Utility Player: Isabelle McKay
Most Valuable Player: Ava Burton
Coaches Award: Cleo McCarthy
B & F Runner Up: Ava Burton
Best & Fairest: Tahlia Sands

17.5 Youth Girls:

These talented athletes joined forces with other clubs to form a combined team and made the club proud with their dedication and sportsmanship throughout the season.

U15.5’s: Stellar Performances

The U15.5’s division produced some extraordinary talents. Harry Bowes led the goal-kicking with an impressive 47 goals.

Here are the award recipients:
Most Improved: Marshall Lyons
Best Utility Player: Raven Gadd
Most Valuable Player: Ryan Rowlands
Coaches’ Award: Fraser Bentley & Brodie Scharenberg
B & F Runner Up: Hamish Grant
Best & Fairest: Connor Jackson

Junior Rising Star and Volunteer of the Year:

Connor Jackson was recognized as the Junior Rising Star for his exceptional skills and commitment to the game.
The Bales Family was awarded the Junior Volunteer of the Year, highlighting their invaluable contribution to the club’s success.

The Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club Junior Presentation Awards were not only a celebration of talent but also a testament to the club’s dedication to fostering a strong sense of community and sportsmanship. Congratulations to all the award winners and every player who contributed to an incredible season. The future of the Northern Beaches Suns shines bright, and we can’t wait to see what the next season brings!

#NBSunsAFL #JuniorAwards #FutureStars #nbsuns

The Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club ignited the night with an explosive display of camaraderie, excitement, and shared triumphs in a recent event that will undoubtedly be etched into the annals of club history. The atmosphere was charged with energy, the spirits were soaring high, and the memories made were nothing short of legendary.

Picture a vibrant scene where laughter echoed like music, smiles illuminated the night like stars, and the tantalizing aroma of mouthwatering pulled pork sliders filled the air. Frosty and Ashley, our culinary virtuosos, crafted a feast that transported taste buds to euphoria. From irresistible sliders to gourmet delights that danced on palates, the culinary journey was unparalleled.

Amidst the crescendo of excitement, the reverse raffle took center stage. Hearts raced, anticipation peaked, and an unexpected twist emerged – five extraordinary finalists, Luke Dougall, Andy Taylor, Jasmine McMahon, Wayne Littlejohn, Abby Caris, and Pania Peke, chose to unite in the true spirit of sportsmanship. Together, they opted to share the almost 5 Grand prize right down the middle, embodying unity and camaraderie that exemplify the essence of the Northern Beaches Suns community.

Adding to the night’s thrill, Geoff Taylor emerged victorious in the Senior Social Fundraiser “Jag the Joker,” pocketing a staggering $700 prize. The exuberance in the air was palpable as these triumphs added an extra layer of excitement to the already electrifying evening.

The event showcased a star-studded lineup that elevated the night to unparalleled heights. The charismatic Brownlow took on the role of master of ceremonies, keeping the energy electric and the enthusiasm infectious. President Boardo and the dynamic Jacko led the way, ensuring that the night unfolded as an enchanting spectacle.

Setting the beats to groove was none other than DJ Jarrod Parker, whose musical symphony had everyone swaying to the rhythm. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of committee members and volunteers worked their magic, turning the event into a shimmering success that left an indelible mark on everyone present.

With nearly 130 members and their future footy legends in attendance, the Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club transformed into a hub of friendship, joy, and collective victory. This wasn’t just an event; it was an experience etched into the hearts of all who participated.

As we raise our glasses to the magnificence of the night, the unity that radiated like sunshine, and the memories that will be cherished for generations, let us pledge to keep the spirit alive. The Northern Beaches Suns community is forging unforgettable moments and creating history together, one epic event at a time.

Join us at the next rendezvous and let’s continue to make history together!

#SunsTriumph #EpicNights #AFLMagic #CommunityUnity #NBSUNS

TOWNSVILLE, 15/08/2023 – The Northern Beaches Suns Junior team emerged as the true stars of the show at the recent AFL Junior Presentation held at The Ville in Townsville, as they scooped up an impressive array of awards and recognitions.

Under the brilliant Queensland sun, the juniors from Northern Beaches Suns showcased their exceptional skills and determination, earning the admiration of spectators and fellow players alike. The event, hosted by Star 106.3 TSV and AFL Queensland, was a celebration of young talent and dedication to the sport.

Leading the charge was none other than Connor Jackson, who clinched the coveted Best and Fairest (B&F) award in the 15.5 age category. Jackson’s prowess on the field was undeniable as he also secured the title of the runner-up goal kicker. His exceptional performance throughout the season truly set a benchmark for his peers.

Another rising star, Jess McLean, made her mark with remarkable achievements. Despite holding a permit to Curra, McLean’s contributions were impossible to ignore. She secured the runner-up position in the 17.5 B&F Female category and was recognized as the 4th top goal kicker. McLean’s dedication and undeniable talent continue to inspire her fellow players.

The accolades kept pouring in for the Northern Beaches Suns as Jonas Vack displayed his remarkable goal-scoring abilities. With his incredible performance, Vack emerged as the leading goal kicker in the 13.5 age category and secured a spot among the top 5 B&F players. His commitment to excellence was truly evident on the field.

Harry Bowes, too, etched his name into the list of outstanding performers. The 15 year-old demonstrated his prowess by securing the leading goal kicker for the 15.5 Boys and secured a notable 6th position in the B&F rankings, cementing his reputation as an indispensable asset to the team.

The achievements of the Northern Beaches Suns weren’t limited to just a handful of players. Special mentions were given to several remarkable talents who had showcased their dedication throughout the season. Spencer Bales, Charley Bales, Jayla Young, Ella Harvey, Tahlia Sands, Hamish Grant, Brodie Hull, and Alex Trueman all received well-deserved recognition for their contributions to the team’s success.

The event was a testament to the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed by the young athletes, their coaches, and the entire Northern Beaches Suns community. It highlighted the promising future of Australian Rules football in the region and served as a reminder of the transformative power of dedication and passion.

As the sun set on the eventful evening, the Northern Beaches Suns Juniors left an indelible mark on the AFL Junior Presentation. Their remarkable achievements underscored the importance of nurturing young talent and investing in the future of the sport.

With the Northern Beaches Suns Junior team continuing to raise the bar, the future of Australian Rules football in the region looks incredibly bright. Their outstanding performances at the recent presentation are a testament to their hard work, skill, and unwavering dedication to the sport they love.

The Northern Beaches Suns, once considered underdogs, are poised to achieve greatness as they announce Ross Henningsen as the Head Coach for the 2024 season. A multi-year roadmap is guiding the club towards a bright future, driven by a renewed sense of family spirit and unwavering determination.

This season, Henningsen’s influence has already begun to transform the Suns’ fate. The club’s inspiring turnaround has united players under a shared vision of success. The positive culture fostered by Henningson has replaced discord with camaraderie, creating an environment where players thrive.

Embracing the underdog theme, the Suns are rebuilding their senior teams with a focus on nurturing young talent. Henningsen’s expertise in talent development has attracted rising stars, and returning players are reaching peak form. The team’s growth signals the dawn of a new era.

Beyond their on-field ambitions, the Suns are committed to community engagement, aiming to inspire the next generation of football enthusiasts. Henningsen envisions a lasting footballing legacy, where the Suns’ success resonates throughout the Northern Beaches community.

As the 2024 season nears, excitement and optimism abound. With Henningsen at the helm, the Suns’ tenacity and tactical brilliance promise captivating displays. United by the family spirit, the Northern Beaches Suns are ready to rise, proving that greatness can emerge from humble beginnings.

Join us for the Ultimate Reverse Raffle Extravaganza!

Calling all footy enthusiasts and supporters! Get ready for an unforgettable evening that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

The Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club is thrilled to present our upcoming Reverse Raffle, the most talked-about event of the season!

Picture this: for just $100, you secure your chance to win big while supporting our beloved club. But wait, there’s more! Each ticket not only enters you into the thrilling reverse draw but also grants you and a friend exclusive access to our incredible event!

Get ready to enjoy a 3-hour Drinks Package, featuring a wide selection of Beer, Wine, and soft drinks. Quench your thirst with your favorite beverages throughout the night!

The excitement doesn’t stop there! We’re thrilled to announce that our prize pool is a whopping $5000.00! That’s right, there’s a chance to win a share of this incredible sum while having a fantastic time.

With every ticket sold, you contribute directly to the growth and success of our club, ensuring we can continue to nurture the talents of our rising stars and provide an exceptional football experience for the entire community.

Don’t miss your chance to join us for this electrifying event! Swing by our bar during Training nights and home games to purchase your tickets. Remember, the sooner you secure your spot, the higher the anticipation and the greater your chances of winning some truly amazing prizes!

Spread the word, rally your friends, and let’s make this Reverse Raffle a night to remember! Together, we can kick our fundraising efforts into overdrive and pave the way for an incredible season ahead. See you there, Suns fans!

In an eagerly anticipated gathering at The Green in Townsville recently, Stirling Hinchliffe MP and Queensland Sport and Recreation joined forces with the Northern Beaches SUNS to explore plans for an upcoming lighting installation. The meeting proved to be a resounding success, propelling the project forward with great enthusiasm and anticipation.

The Northern Beaches SUNS, Townsville’s cherished Australian rules football team, are leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of completing this significant endeavor in a timely manner. With unwavering determination, the team is aiming to have the lights illuminating their home ground before the year draws to a close, marking a major milestone in the development of the sport in the region.

Recognizing the collaborative efforts of various individuals and organizations, the Northern Beaches SUNS expressed heartfelt appreciation to those who tirelessly advocated on their behalf. The fruitful outcome of this meeting would not have been possible without the dedicated support and lobbying from these key stakeholders.

Undoubtedly, the financial support provided by Queensland Sport and Recreation played a crucial role in bringing this ambitious project to fruition. The generous funding offered by the organization will pave the way for the implementation of state-of-the-art lighting infrastructure, significantly enhancing the stadium’s capabilities and overall spectator experience.

The introduction of the new lighting system holds the promise of revolutionizing the way games are played and witnessed at The Green in Townsville. Beyond extending the playing hours to accommodate evening matches and training sessions, it will provide optimal visibility and create an electrifying atmosphere for both players and spectators alike.

The implications of this lighting installation extend beyond the immediate benefits for the Northern Beaches SUNS. With upgraded facilities, The Green will have the capacity to attract more sporting events, creating new opportunities for the local community and fostering the growth of Australian rules football in the region.

As the project gains momentum, the Northern Beaches SUNS are fully committed to diligently working towards their goal of completing the lighting installation by the end of the year. The team’s unwavering dedication and resolve are evident, reflecting their deep passion for the sport and their commitment to the Townsville community.

With the groundwork laid during this productive meeting, the future shines bright for both the Northern Beaches SUNS and their devoted fans. As the project progresses, anticipation builds, and the local community eagerly awaits the illuminating transformation of The Green in Townsville.

Calling all footy fanatics of the Northern Beaches Suns!

Get ready for a throwback extravaganza that will transport you straight to the groovy 70s and totally

rad 80s! It’s time to unleash your inner rockstar and join us for an epic Karaoke Night like no other!

Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 22nd at 6:30 PM and get your vocal cords warmed up for an evening filled with hilarious harmonies and toe-tapping tunes. We promise you won’t need Autotune, but a sense of humor is highly recommended!

Don’t forget to bring the kids along, because this is a night that’s fun for the whole family! While you’re belting out your favorite hits, your little rockstars can showcase their talents too. It’s never too early to introduce them to the classics and witness their star potential!

Now, we know you’re probably thinking, “What’s the catch?” Well, worry not, dear friends, because we’ve got you covered! Here’s what you can expect:

Non-stop hits from the golden eras of disco, hair metal, and everything in between! From Abba to Bon Jovi, Madonna to Queen, we’ve got your favorite anthems lined up to ignite the dance floor.

Outrageously awesome costumes are strongly encouraged! Dust off those bell-bottoms, tease up your hair and prepare to relive the fashion triumphs (and tragedies) of the past. Best-dressed awards? Oh, you betcha!

Exciting prizes that will make your hair stand on end! Will you be crowned the Karaoke King or Queen of the night? Show off your vocal skills and claim your moment of glory.

A fully stocked bar to quench your thirst and keep the good vibes flowing. Singing might be thirsty work but worry not, we’ve got refreshing beverages that will keep you hydrated (or feeling like a rockstar, your choice!).

So gather your squad, spread the word, and prepare for an evening that will have you singing, laughing, and dancing until you can’t feel your feet anymore (in a good way, we promise). Let’s make this a night that will go down in the Northern Beaches Suns’ history books!

Remember, it’s all happening on Saturday, July 22nd, starting at 6:30 PM. Don’t be fashionably late; be fashionably early! Grab your microphones, channel your inner Freddie Mercury, and let’s make this Karaoke Night the stuff legends are made of!

See you there, Suns superstars! #SunsKaraokeNight#70s80sThrowback#nbsuns#sunstoshine2023