The redevelopment of the Barossa Park Project included the upgrade of the existing oval to meet AFL standards and a new multi-purpose building comprising a 300-seat event space, commercial kitchen, clubroom, change facilities and gym.

The 2025 finalists have been announced for the Ken Gannon Football Facilities Award, recognising the projects that set the benchmark in best-practice design and development to support the continued growth of Australian Football.

As the league works towards its goal of one million participants by 2033, high-quality community facilities are essential to supporting the game’s continued growth. In 2025 alone, more than 100 new playing fields have been activated, reflecting the strong demand for accessible and fit-for-purpose venues.

The Ken Gannon Community Football Facilities Award recognises projects that deliver modern, inclusive facilities – whether through new developments or major upgrades – ensuring local clubs and communities have the infrastructure needed to support growing participation.

Each State and Territory selected its leading community facility project for 2025, with those recipients progressing as national finalists for the Ken Gannon Community Football Facility Award.

The AFL congratulates the following 2025 national finalists of the 2025 Ken Gannon Community Football Facilities Awards:
 

  • NSW/ACT:         Bob Prenter Reserve Facility Upgrade
  • NT:                      Maningrida Sports Upgrades
  • QLD:                   Iona College – Breaking New Ground Partnership
  • SA:                       Barossa Park Development
  • TAS:                    Windsor Park Oval Redevelopment                   
  • VIC:                     Alexandra Park Pavilion Redevelopment
  • WA:                     Halesworth Park Development             

 
AFL Head of Venue Network Enhancements and Partnerships, Shayne Ward, congratulated the 2025 national finalists.
 
“The strength of our game at the grassroots level heavily relies on the quality and accessibility of our facilities, so it’s fantastic to see more than 100 new playing fields unlocked in 2025 alone,” said Ward.
 
“Congratulations to our 2025 finalists - the Ken Gannon Community Football Facility Award celebrates projects that don’t just meet demand, but set new benchmarks in design, accessibility and inclusion.
 
“As we continue our journey towards one million participants by 2033, investment in modern, welcoming and fit-for-purpose facilities will remain critical to ensuring every player, volunteer and fan has a place to belong.”
 
Introduced in 2019, the winner of the Ken Gannon Football Facility Award is expected to be announced in the coming months.
 
All finalists have been developed in line with the AFL’s Preferred Facilities Guidelines, ensuring facilities are well designed, accessible and aligned with the league’s long-term priorities.
 
For more information on the Ken Gannon Football Facility Award, visit:
https://play.afl/facility-management/ken-gannon-awards