Photography winners: Outstanding Photo - Action (Luke Hemer) and Essence of the Game (Craig Dooley)
AFL Victoria is proud to announce the winning submissions for 2025 AFL Victoria Community Football Media Awards.
A call for submissions was put out at the end of the 2025 community football season, for entries in 11 categories including photography, written media, TV and video, and service to the game.
The awards recognise outstanding coverage of Victorian community football and the significant role media has played in promoting and supporting the local game.
AFL Victoria was pleased to receive many of high-quality submissions across the categories, from community media outlets across the state including regional and metro areas.
Award submissions were reviewed by a judging panel consisting of:
Greg Madigan – Head of AFL Victoria
Jay Allen – AFL General Manager Corporate Affairs
Riley Brettell – AFL Victoria Partnerships Manager
Paul Milo – AFL Victoria Club Development & Experience Manager
Sarah Morton and Michael Willson – AFL Photos
Head of AFL Victoria, Greg Madigan, said that it is fantastic to see the hard work of community football media recognised.
“It’s the dedicated people across the state who share the magic of community footy with their local communities every season, and I am very pleased to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work of these individuals and groups,” Madigan said.
“There are hundreds of talented media personnel working and volunteering at community football leagues across the state, and I look forward to continuing to recognise the hard work of more individuals following the 2026 season.”
Congratulations to the following winners and honourable mentions:
Please note: Photography submissions were reviewed by the AFL Photos team, with submissions de-identified to ensure fair judgement.
Outstanding Community Football Photograph – Action
WINNER: Luke Hemer (freelance photographer)
AFL Photos comment: This photo beautifully celebrates classic country footy. Intense physical contact and strong facial expressions, with bodies covered in thick mud, speak to the grit and commitment of the contest. The warmth of the late-afternoon winter sun adds depth, while flecks of mud caught in the light bring subtle energy to the frame. A balanced composition and technically strong execution combine to create an image that authentically reflects the physical beauty of the game.
Honourable mention: Jordan Sacchetta (GameFace)
Outstanding Community Football Photograph – Essence of the Game, presented by Love the Game: Craig Dooley (freelance photographer)
AFL Photos comment: This photo captures more than a moment in play, it captures what sport truly means. The raw emotion and connection between player and fans tells a powerful story. The interaction beyond the boundary line speaks to the heart of community, reminding us that the game belongs to everyone. Tight framing keeps the focus firmly on this exchange, revealing the different characters within the scene and adding richness to the moment. A special piece of footy storytelling.
Honourable mention: Luke Hemer (freelance photographer)
Outstanding Feature Story, presented by WorkSafe Victoria: Meg Saultry, ‘Joel’s Inspiring Return’, News Corp/Geelong Advertiser (click here to view)
Outstanding News Coverage: Brayden May, ‘Suburban footballer issues warning to all clubs after near-death experience’, News Corp/Leader Local Footy (EDFL) (click here to view)
Outstanding Written Column: Country Footy Scores ‘The Weekly Wrap', (click here to view)
Outstanding use of TV or Online Video: Essendon District Football League, Premier Men’s and Premier Women’s Grand Final Hype video, (click here to view)
Outstanding Match Day Radio Coverage, presented by CDS Vic: O&M Live Match Day
Outstanding Football Radio Show or Podcast: VAFA For the Love of the Game Podcast
Outstanding Contribution to Community Football Media: Paul Amy (News Corp/Leader)
Described by those who nominated him:
“No name is more synonymous with elite coverage of community football in Victoria than Paul Amy. Across more than three decades Paul, through his role with Leader Newspapers and now with Code Sport/Herald Sun, has dominated coverage of grass roots football, scoring countless scoops and always writing them with his unique flair for unmissable story telling. His Twitter feed alone is a go-to for all local footy fans! Paul has won the trust of players, coaches, administrators and governing bodies at all levels across the state and has become a doyen to generations of young sports reporters. An acclaimed author and incredible mentor to many, no-one else has ever written as many wonderful stories highlighting the true essence of the spirit of the game. He is a legend among mere mortals.”
Outstanding Coverage - Diversity and Inclusion: Dan Batten (News Corp/Geelong Advertiser)
Community Football Media Rising Star, presented by TAC Victoria: Mitch Bourke (News Corp)
Described by those who nominated him:
“Since joining the Herald Sun local sports team in early 2025, after previous stints with News Corp at the Gold Coast Bulletin and the Mackay Daily Mercury, Mitch Bourke has quickly proven to be a rising star in sports journalism.
Mitch has provided strong season coverage of the Southern Football League in 2025, but it has really been in his coverage of school football where his talents have shone brightest.
Mitch wrote a weekly "APS Insider" column for the Herald Sun online where he provided unique insights into the rising stars of the game playing in the much-vaunted APS schools competition while he also provided outstanding coverage of the Herald Sun Shield which was also live-streamed on our platforms.
Described by veteran journalist Paul Amy as a "generational talent" we can expect to see Mitch Bourke's byline in prominent positions for years to come.”
Nominations for the 2026 AFL Victoria Community Football Media Awards will open towards the end of the 2026 community football season.