Photo Credit: AFL Photos
Australian rules football has made history in Queensland with both AFL clubs, the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast SUNS, qualifying for the 2025 Toyota AFL Finals Series and the state on track to achieve another participation record.
Earlier today Head of AFL Queensland Trisha Squires, Brisbane Lions CEO Sam Graham, Gold Coast SUNS CEO Mark Evans, The Honourable Timothy Mander MP, Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, The Honourable Michael de Brenni MP, Member for Springwood, Mayor of City of Logan, Jon Raven, Acting Mayor Of Ipswich Nicole Jonic and Ipswich Councillor Jacob Madsen gathered at Kimberley Park State School, a Logan primary school that borders on the Lions and SUNS’ zones, to celebrate this milestone.
Squires said this was a significant moment for the code in Queensland.
“For the first time in our game’s proud 129 year history both Queensland clubs have qualified for the Toyota AFL Finals Series,” she said.
“Not only is our elite game thriving but our participation across the state only continues to grow.
“Since 2019 our overall participation has doubled and in 2025 we have already surpassed last year’s record and are 12 per cent up on last year.
“With both elite clubs having so many Queenslanders on their AFL and AFLW lists, it’s clear to the next generation coming through that there is a genuine pathway for boys and girls from NAB AFL Auskick, all the way through to the elite game.
“While we celebrate the success of the elite clubs and community participation growth, we must ensure that our AFL environment comprising of facilities, umpires, coaches and volunteers is in a healthy and sustainable position.
“I would like to thank the ongoing support of the Federal, State and Local Governments and community AFL volunteers for all they have done to enrich the experience of our participants, umpires, and coaches.
“Over the next few weeks we have the opportunity for more Queenslanders to love and connect with Australia’s game."
Gold Coast SUNS CEO Mark Evans said the club were excited to reach their first Finals campaign in their fourteen year history.
“AFL is kicking goals in Queensland like never before with record participation. It’s wonderful to have the Lions and SUNS in the Finals at the same time,” he said.
“We can feel the excitement that is building on the Gold Coast and it’s been tremendous for all of the people who have been around the club for years and years.
“All I can say is for the SUNS, we are all gas, no brakes - let’s get the job done.”
Brisbane Lions CEO Sam Graham said the club were thrilled to be in their seventh straight finals series.
“We could not be prouder of our club and players for their efforts on and off the field this year,” he said.
“This is a credit to the work of our Senior Coach Chris Fagan and Head of Football Danny Daly.
“Participation and the growth in our game across Queensland has been incredible and that nourishes our elite clubs with the SUNS and Lions inspiring the next generation of participants."
The Lions will meet Geelong in a qualifying final at the MCG on Friday 5 September, while the SUNS will travel to Perth to meet Fremantle in an elimination final at Optus Stadium on Saturday 6 September. 