Three Northern NSW Football teams achieve two-star Club Changer accreditations

Image credit: Northern NSW Football

Northern NSW Football has confirmed that two-star Club Changer accreditations have been awarded to three clubs affiliated with the member federation.

Lochinvar Rovers from the Hunter Valley were the first to achieve two-stars, followed by Macquarie Football’s Valentine FC and Old Bar Barbarians from Football Mid North Coast.

Club Changer is Football Australia’s Club Development Program which aims to protect and enhance all clubs by making them stronger and more resilient, leading them to build welcoming and inclusive cultures, and educate them on positive environments for players, coaches, volunteers, and officials – while planning for long term viability and success.

Clubs earn one, two or three stars as they progress further within the program. For each star award, benefits and incentives are unlocked for the club to utilise and further progress their capacity and capability.

NNSWF Club Support and Development Officer Brett Hodgekiss shared his excitement in having three northern NSW clubs reach two-star accreditation.

“Club Changer is making a difference within NNSWF clubs. There are 109 clubs from across the region that are one-star accredited,” Hodgekiss said via media release.

“There are many benefits for clubs to be part of the Club Changer program including being eligible for specific funding and opportunities through Football Australia as well as additional support and resources.

“Congratulations to Lochinvar, Valentine and Old Bar for reaching two-star accreditations which is a fantastic achievement.”

Clubs who have two-star accreditation and beyond are presented the opportunity to capitalise on relationships already established to create genuine change for clubs and the key people that manage them.

For more information about Club Changer, you can find it here.

Image credit: Football Victoria

The Celebrating Ability event will take place at The Home of The Matildas on Saturday, December 6.

The event promises an interactive day of learning and connection, featuring group workshops, the launch of Football Victoria’s new Disability Football Framework, and club education sessions with Aspect to promote inclusion across all levels of the game.

The Celebrating Ability event will offer a completely free, in-person opportunity for clubs to explore the space and take part in the celebration of the International Day of People With a Disability (IDoPWD).

The day will include:

Launch: Football Victoria will officially unveil its Disability Football Framework on December 3

Workshop: Clubs can learn how to start and run an All Abilities program

Education Session: Delivered by Football Victoria’s partners, providing practical guidance and support

Engagement: Attendees will gain insights from guest speakers and have the opportunity to connect with other clubs, coaches, and administrators

Event Details

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025

Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm

Where: The Home of the Matildas, Sports Drive, Bundoora, 3083

Registration: Registration is required. Please use the link below to secure your place

This event offers an excellent opportunity for clubs across Victoria to engage, learn, and celebrate ability. Clubs are encouraged to share this opportunity with anyone who may be interested.

Image credit: Macarthur Bulls FC

Macarthur Bulls FC has confirmed the beginning of a two-year strategic alignment with Alvaro Logistics Group, who will join the Club as a Senior Partner.

Under the agreement, Alvaro Logistics Group will serve as the official back-of-short sponsor, with its logo prominently displayed on the Bulls’ Isuzu UTE A-League Men Home and Away kits.

Alvaro’s support highlights a shared dedication to growing the game and creating positive opportunities within the community. Through this partnership, the club will engage more closely with locals, support programs that nurture participation and talent, and champion initiatives that bring fans closer to the heart of the club.

Founded in 1978, Alvaro Logistics delivers Contract Management and Warehouse Solutions through a custom-built fleet, offering tailored services that drive fast, effective results. Their expertise is proven through long-term collaboration with clients across industries such as steel, FMCG, plumbing, and container handling, supported by comprehensive distribution facilities.

Mario Alvaro, Director of Alvaro Logistics Group, stated that the company is proud to join forces with a club that embodies its values.

“Macarthur Bulls FC represents the heart and ambition of South West Sydney,” he said via press release.

“As a local business, we’re passionate about giving back to the community that’s supported us for so many years. Partnering with the Bulls allows us to contribute to programs that inspire the next generation and bring people together through football.”

Mark Jensen, Chief Commercial Officer of Macarthur Bulls FC, said the partnership represents mutual interests to driving meaningful growth and impact in the region.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Alvaro Logistics Group to the Bulls family,” he said via press release.

“Alvaro Logistics Group are a proudly local business with deep ties to South West Sydney, and their support will help us continue growing football from the grassroots up. This partnership is about more than sponsorship – it’s about investing in people, community, and opportunity and supporting a team the is truly invested in its South West Sydney.”

Through their joint efforts, they will foster participation, support regional development, and deepen the bond between the club and its supporters.