Southport has been crowned the 2024 Bond University QAFLW Premiers following a dominant 35-point victory over Bond University at People First Stadium.
The day was historic for women’s Australian rules football on the Gold Coast, with powerhouse clubs Southport and Bond University securing grand final spots in both grades. Southport’s win marks a double triumph, as the Sharks also claimed the reserve grade premiership earlier in the day.
The Gold Coast derbies lived up to their blockbuster billing, delivering two exciting matches.
In the Bond University QAFLW Seniors Grand Final, Bond University’s trademark defence kept the Sharks on their toes in the opening term. However, Southport took control thereafter, keeping the Bull Sharks scoreless in the second half.
Heading into the match, the two teams had faced off twice during the home-and-away season, with each securing one win apiece before the grand final.
In front of a passionate black and white army of supporters, Southport’s fans had plenty to cheer about, buoyed by their reserves’ earlier victory.
This marks a maiden premiership for Southport, who were only elevated to the Bond University QAFLW in 2022. The Sharks, who were preliminary finalists in 2023 and grand finalists in 2022, have now claimed their first top women’s league title in the state.
Kaylee Kimber delivered a commanding performance, earning the Best on Ground medal with a unanimous nine votes.*
In the reserves grand final, the game was tightly contested in the first half, with only two points separating the teams at the main break.
Southport intensified their effort after halftime, eventually securing their second Bond University QAFLW Reserves Premiership with a 20-point victory.
Midfielder Mikayla Nurse was awarded Best on Ground for her standout performance.
Trisha Squires, Head of AFL Queensland, congratulated Southport on their history-making achievements.
“Well done to both Southport and Bond University for advancing to both the senior and reserve grand finals today at People First Stadium. This accomplishment underscores the strength and quality of talent in both clubs,” she said.
“A huge congratulations to Southport for winning both matches, but especially the Bond University QAFLW flag in what’s their maiden premiership in the top women’s league in the state.
“Today’s grand finals were a celebration of another remarkable year of women’s Australian rules football in Queensland. It’s a tribute not only to our players but also to the dedicated supporters who stand by them. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our coaches, umpires, club volunteers, administrators, officials, medical staff, and runners. Your commitment makes our great game so great.
“A special note of appreciation also goes to Bond University, with season 2024 marking eight years as the QAFLW naming rights partner. The Bond University QAFLW has become one of Australia’s premier women’s football leagues, nurturing AFLW stars and serving as a vital pathway for female talent in Queensland. The competition’s success is a testament to Bond University’s unwavering support.”
Bond University QAFLW Seniors Grand Final
Southport 8.6-54 def. Bond University 3.1-19
Best on Ground: Kaylee Kimber, Southport
Bond University QAFLW Reserves Grand Final
Southport 3.9-29 def. Bond University 7.5-47
Best on Ground: Mikayla Nurse, Southport
*The Best on Ground Medal is determined by a 3-person panel, voting on a 3-2-1 basis.
NOTE: A full match review will be available on AFLQ.com.au
