The Balranald Football Netball Club is gearing up for an exciting 2026 season, unveiling a string of impressive signings and coaching appointments that signal the club’s ambition to build on recent success.

The Roos have pulled off a major coup by securing Chris Moreland, whose résumé reads like a who’s who of Victorian football.

The veteran began his senior career with Geelong VFL in 2009 before dominating at Bell Post Hill Football Club, collecting three premierships between 2010-13 and captaining the side in 2011.

His five-year stint with Geelong West Giants in the GFL saw him become a regular interleague representative, before transitioning into coaching and guiding Powelltown to back-to-back premierships in 2022 and 2023.

A four-time Vic Country representative and 2012 All-Australian, Moreland brings a wealth of experience and proven leadership to the blue and white.

The club is also celebrating the return of local talent, with Khy Jess coming back to continue his family’s iconic legacy in Balranald.

After seven successful years with Redan Football Club in Ballarat, where he claimed junior premierships, multiple best and fairest awards, and represented the Ballarat Rebels in the Coates Talent League, the 2024 Ballarat FNL Rookie of the Year brings a damaging left foot and fearless attack to the contest.

Jess, who finished runner-up in Redan’s senior best and fairest, will add crucial dynamism to the Roos’ midfield.

Another Balranald junior returning home is Liam ‘Flea’ Farnsworth, who made his mark at Redan after heading to Ballarat for school. Breaking into senior football in 2023, Farnsworth showcased his trademark run, composure, and ability to open up the game from half-back and the wing.

The club has locked in continuity at the top, with Jake Lockhart and Woody Longford re-signing to coach the Colts in 2026.

The duo has overseen a remarkable turnaround, taking the team from no wins in three seasons to a preliminary final this year; a testament to their passion, patience, and ability to build culture and confidence.

On the netball side, the Roos are welcoming Lara Antrobus, who brings an impressive résumé from North Ballarat FNC.

The natural goal defender capped off 2025 with an U19 premiership and is known for her strong defensive reads, intercepting ability, and calm ball movement under pressure.

The club has also announced exciting coaching appointments across its netball program.

Maddison Joliffe and Paris Joliffe will lead B Grade, with Maddison returning to Balranald after success with the Meningie Bears and Coorong Cats, while Paris brings local knowledge and exceptional defensive game sense.

The A Reserves will be guided by Taylin Barry and Chloe Taylor, both of whom played A Grade last season and are ready to bring that experience to the returning A Res side.

With a blend of experienced recruits, returning local heroes, and strong coaching continuity, the Balranald Roos are assembling all the pieces for what promises to be a memorable 2026 season.