The Hay Lions Football Netball Club will make a significant transition from the Golden Rivers Football Netball League (GRFNL) to the Central Murray Football Netball League (CMFNL) from the 2026 season.

AFL Central Victoria confirmed the move follows a decision by the Central Rivers Board to progress with the proposed transfers of four clubs - Hay, Moulamein, Murrabit, and Wandella - into the Central Murray Football Netball League from the 2026 season,

in line with AFL Victoria State Transfer Regulations.

The Lions' move comes as part of the Northern Futures Project (NFP), an extensive review designed to address declining participation and operational challenges across both leagues.

Following consultation with clubs from both leagues, the NFP Steering Committee presented eight key recommendations, including concluding and celebrating the GRFNL in 2025, recognising its historic contribution to the region.

The restructure represents one of the most significant changes to regional football and netball in decades, with the Golden Rivers Football Netball League having operated since 1919, originally as the Kerang and District Football Association until 1944, before being re-established as the Kerang and District Football League in 1946.

"We thank everyone who has been involved in supporting the future of our club and community sport," the Hay Lions stated in their announcement.

"We look forward to joining the Central Murray FNL and embracing this exciting new chapter for our players, members, and supporters."

The Central Murray Football Netball League has a rich history, formed as the Mid-Murray Football League in 1946 as local football resumed after World War II. Nyah won the inaugural premiership, defeating Woorinen in a three-team competition that also included Lake Boga.

The league experienced significant growth in 1997 when the Northern and Echuca Football League folded and its remaining clubs merged to form three new clubs and joined the MMFL. To reflect the larger geographical area the league now covered, the MMFL was renamed the Central Murray Football League.

Should the transfers be approved by AFL Victoria and the Region Council, the Central Rivers Board will develop minimum criteria for all clubs, both existing and transferring, to ensure they are positioned to compete strongly and sustainably.

A reporting process will be implemented requiring clubs to provide retention and recruitment data to demonstrate readiness for the 2026 season, with the Board continuing to work closely with clubs to provide guidance and support throughout the transition.

The decision reflects broader challenges facing regional football, with the NFP recommendations encouraging clubs to explore sustainable futures through transfers to appropriate leagues and amalgamation opportunities with neighbouring clubs.

The move marks the end of the Hay Lions' long association with the Golden Rivers competition, which will conclude operations in 2025.

The league changed its name from the Kerang and District Football League to the Golden Rivers Football League in 1998 at the direction of the Victorian Country Football League to better reflect its expansion beyond the immediate Kerang area.

The Central Rivers Board confirmed that the Central Murray Football Netball League name and branding will be retained at this stage, providing continuity for the expanded competition.