The HDFNL was one of the last remaining football leagues in Victoria to keep its hopes of finals football alive in 2021 and was waiting to see if hosting a September 18 grand final was possible.
Changes to regional Victoria’s COVID-19 restrictions came into effect from midnight on Thursday, but only community sport training was permitted to return.
A statement issued by HDFNL chair Peter Cole on Thursday cited ongoing health risks and no specified return-to-play timeline as reasons for pulling the pin on season 2021.
“With the announcement of some restrictions easing from midnight on Thursday, September 9, and at this stage with no date or timeline to return to community sport and the possibility of COVID-19 impacting the health of the players and communities, the HDFNL board has made this difficult decision,” Cole said.
“As all are aware, this is not how the board wanted to finalise the 2021 competition, however, with the current restrictions in place they feel there is no other option left.
“All HDFNL board members want to particularly thank all their clubs, volunteers, players, Bendigo Umpires Association, and extended communities for their support and understanding in this very difficult year.
“Together we can continue to grow the HDFNL and look forward to seeing all our players and supporters back for a bigger and better season in 2022.”
Clubs voted last week to wait for any announcements regarding community sport regulations before cancelling the season.
The league and club presidents agreed to wait until Thursday, September 9, for any news, so any decider could be precipitated by a week of training between remaining football sides Lockington-Bamawm United and Colbinabbin, while Elmore and Colbo were scheduled for the A-grade netball final.
They will instead be recognised as minor premiers, with trophies to be presented for historical purposes.
League best and fairest awards will be held at a date to be announced by the HDFNL.
It is the second year running the league has been unable to hold a finals series because of the COVID-19 pandemic ― a fate shared by many others across Victoria.
The Murray League, Goulburn Valley League and Picola District League all announced their season cancellations in late August.
HDFNL minor premiers:
Football
Seniors: Lockington-Bamawm United.
Reserves: White Hills.
Under-18s: Huntly.
Netball
A-grade: Elmore.
A-reserve: Mount Pleasant.
B-grade: North Bendigo.
B-reserve: Elmore.
Under-17: Elmore.
Under-15: Elmore.
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