Following the NWFL’s Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the league wishes to announce the following changes to its Executive.
Retiring Vice Presidents Andrew Buchhorn (resigned June), Kim Miles and retiring Independent Vicki Slater have made way for newly elected members Brad McDonald and Melissa Budgeon. The pair joins newly elected Vice Presidents Geoff Rootes and Shane Lee, current Independent Leigh French, and re-elected President Garry Carpenter.
The NWFL wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude to Andrew, Kim, and Vicki for their tireless service to the league. Their combined 43 years of dedication as either directors or employees have significantly shaped the NWFL’s growth and success. We look forward to seeing all three at the football throughout the 2025 season.
The league is excited to welcome Brad McDonald and Melissa Budgeon to the NWFL Executive. Their inclusion marks a significant step forward as the league embarks on its Premier League phase.
Melissa Budgeon is a fantastic addition to the team. Her dedication and thorough approach have been instrumental in the development of Ulverstone Football Club’s women’s and girls’ programs. Her transformative work with the Devils academies, coupled with her recognition as the Tasmanian AFLW Ambassador in 2024, highlights her capacity to innovate and lead. Her involvement at the AFLW Grand Final with fellow ambassadors has provided her with fresh perspectives and ideas that will benefit the NWFL. Additionally, her top-tier stakeholder management skills, will be a major asset to the Executive.
Brad McDonald brings a wealth of entrepreneurial and football expertise. Having successfully grown the Savu Saunas brand across the North West Coast, Brad’s ability to innovate and strategise is clear. His deep football background, which includes representing Tasmania at state level and competing within the NWFL, underscores his understanding of the game and its community. His unique blend of business acumen and football insight will be invaluable as the NWFL heads into a massive 2025 season.
The NWFL is also seeking to fill a vacancy on the Executive, presenting an exciting opportunity for another talented individual to join this dynamic team and contribute to the league’s future success.
The NWFL looks forward to an exciting 2025 season under the leadership of its renewed Executive team.
Photo credit: The Advocate newspaper
Melissa Budgeon & Brad McDonald