League president Brian Purtill said in a statement that the decision was based on ensuring the league remained strong and sustainable into the future.
The review was initiated following Barooga Football Netball Club’s admission into the competition, after which the league announced it would look into the possibility of splitting the league.
During the nine-month review, the league board consulted every member club, as well as assessing the competition data, historical trends and the long-term sustainability of the league, to make the decision.
‘’Over the past nine months, the board has carefully considered feedback from every member club and undertaken a comprehensive review of the competition,’’ Purtill said.
‘’We believe this new structure provides the best opportunity to strengthen the league for the future.’’
The North West division will include Berrigan, Blighty, Deni Rovers, Jerilderie, Mathoura, Picola United, Rennie and Tocumwal.
The South East division will include Barooga, Dookie United, Katamatite, Katandra, Katunga, Strathmerton, Tungamah and Waaia.
'’The introduction of the North West and South East divisions is designed to bring together clubs with similar community characteristics and resources, and create an environment where every club has the greatest opportunity to be successful both on and off the field,’’ Purtill said.
‘’The PDFNL will continue to engage with clubs that have expressed an interest in joining the competition, and the board has committed to undertaking a further review of the competition structure within two years to ensure it continues to meet the needs of our clubs and communities.’’
The introduction of the North West and South East divisions marks the first split competition since 2017, with further details on the format and fixtures for 2027 to be released in coming months.
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