Bunbury locked in for inaugural AFL Nines tournamentThursday, September 4, 2025 - 11:28 AM - by Jordan McArdle

WA Football is excited to announce the inaugural AFL Nines South West tournament is locked in for November.

The three-day competition, to be hosted at Bunbury's Hands Oval from November 7-9, is expected to see more than 200 participants from around Australia flock to WA’s picturesque South West region.

Proudly supported by the City of Bunbury and tourism partner Bunbury Geographe, the AFL Nines South West tournament will be a fun-filled spring weekend in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, similar to the popular Byron AFL Nines which has become a staple of the football calendar since its inception more than a decade ago.

AFL Nines is a fast, free-flowing game that involves nine players on each team playing on a smaller field, with no tackling or bumping, making it suitable for people of any skill level.

With shorter matches, a tackle-free format, and a fun, social atmosphere, AFL Nines is for those who used to love playing footy and want a version that fits their busy schedules, to people who’ve never played before and are just looking for something new to try with friends.

Expressions of interest are open from Wednesday, August 27, for mixed, men’s, women’s and masters for over 30s, with fixtures to be announced in the lead up to the event.

The expression of interest form can be found here.  

“We’ve seen the success of the annual Byron AFL Nines over the past decade, and we’re really excited to bring a similar-style tournament to WA’s South West region,” WA Football’s Executive Manager of Participation and Programs Strategy Chris Bandy said.

“We encourage players of all levels of football experience to make a team and enjoy a fun long weekend of footy in a fantastic part of our State in what should be favourable spring weather.

“We’re grateful for the support of City of Bunbury and their involvement in securing the event for the region, with tourism partner Bunbury Geographe also playing a big role in accommodating the expected 200-plus visitors from across WA and interstate.”

Bunbury Mayor Jaysen Miguel was thrilled to host the event and showcase the South West and its premier venue – the newly-redeveloped Hands Oval - to hundreds of footballers from across the country.

“We’re thrilled to welcome the inaugural AFL Nines South West tournament to Bunbury. Events like this not only showcase our city’s fantastic sporting facilities but also bring a real buzz to the community and local economy,” Miguel said.

“Hands Oval is a premier venue and we’re proud to support an event that encourages participation from people of all ages and backgrounds.

“A big thank you to WA Football and Bunbury Geographe for their commitment and confidence in bringing this exciting event to our region.”

Rob Auld, AFL Executive General Manager, Game Development, said he is excited for the first AFL Nines South West tournament to be staged in November.

“Offering more ways to play, AFL Nines welcomes all participants to get involved and enjoy the fun of footy,” Auld said.

“There have been a growing number AFL Nines participants across the country, so it’s great to see the introduction of AFL Nines South West to the calendar.

“With a tackle-free and modified format, AFL Nines welcomes everyone, so it doesn’t matter if you’re new to the game or experienced in kicking a Sherrin; it’s the perfect way to stay active, socialise with friends and connect through footy.”