Darling Downs
HELPFUL INFORMATION
Participations and Competitions Darling Downs- Jana Anderson
Media Enquiries- aflqmedia@afl.com.au
Address- 154 Stephensen St, Harristown, Queensland 4350
AFL Darling Downs is proud to work with a number of local sponsors to grow Australian rules football participation in the region.
Australian rules football in the Darling Downs dates back to the 1870s, introduced by Victorian expats drawn to the region’s agricultural opportunities. Nearly a century later, the game saw renewed life when a 1970 ad in The Chronicle caught the attention of Bill and Marj Shaw, leading to the formation of the Darling Downs Australian Football League (DDAFL). Three clubs—Aviation, Coolaroo, and Signals—competed in the first premiership in 1971. By 1974, the league had expanded to six teams, including South Toowoomba and QAC, with more clubs from Goondiwindi, Warwick, Dalby, and beyond joining over the next decade. Despite clubs coming and going, Aussie rules continued to grow, earning recognition alongside other sporting codes in the region.
Over the years, key contributors have been honoured, including the Holman family, with the Senior Best and Fairest medal named in their honour, and John Green, whose name graces the Senior Leading Goal Kicking award. In 2003, Steve Kenna became the region’s first AFL/AFLQ draftee, paving the way for future talent. The women’s competition began in 2013, with AFLDD Life Member Heather Green celebrated through the naming of the Senior Women’s Best and Fairest Medal. Today, after more than five decades, the Darling Downs boasts a rich football history built on community, dedication, and a deep love for the game.
See the proud list of Best and Fairest Medal winners.