Connecting, Learning, and Growing Together Seven Experience Hubs are set to open across Victoria this year, offering umpires a valuable opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired. The inaugural session of the Women & Girls Umpire Experience Hub will take place at City Oval Ballarat on Monday, March 18th from 6pm-8pm.

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) is excited to welcome Ally Steenhuis to its board, marking a positive step as it seeks to increase female representation in its leadership. Ally's journey into umpiring began in 2020, where she found herself warmly welcomed into a supportive community despite lacking prior experience in football.  Starting as a boundary umpire, Ally dedicated three seasons before venturing into field umpiring in 2023. Her hard work paid off with senior appointments in both the Central Highlands Football League (CHFL) and the Ballarat Football League (BFL), showcasing her talent and dedication. As part of Ally’s board portfolio, she has been appointed as the BFUA Women and Girls Umpiring Liaison, a role that connects her to AFL Victoria and other female counterparts across the state. In this position, she will focus on fostering inclusivity within the association, building relationships and supporting the BFUA to increase women and girls in its ranks. BFUA Chair Deb Sleep said Ally’s appointment was a testament to her professionalism and passion for umpiring, and in particular, her leadership in creating a welcoming environment for women and girls in the BFUA. “Ally is a welcome addition to the board, and we know she will represent both young people and women and girls with enthusiasm and compassion” Sleep said. During the offseason, Ally enjoys spending time with loved ones and indulging in her passion for cricket. Her diverse interests and commitment to community engagement make her a valuable addition to the BFUA board. Ally Steenhuis's appointment signifies a step forward for diversity and community engagement within the umpiring community. We look forward to her contributions and wish her all the best in this new role!

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) is seeking to appoint the following roles for Season 2024.

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) is proud to announce and celebrate a significant achievement as two promising female field umpires, Ally Steenhuis and Kate Tomkins, make their debut in the Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) senior competition.

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) has bestowed Life Membership upon Julian Pinder, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the umpiring community.

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) is pleased to recognise Les Vearing's exceptional contributions by awarding him with Life Membership of the association.

The Ballarat Football Umpires Association (BFUA) is thrilled to announce its upcoming 110th Anniversary Celebration, marking more than a century of dedication to the game of football and the umpiring community. This momentous occasion will bring together current and former umpires, along with their families and friends, to reflect on the association's rich history since its inception in 1913. The event promises to be a memorable gathering open to all ages, fostering camaraderie and nostalgia. Scheduled to take place at the Ballarat Leagues Club on evening of Saturday July 15, 2023, the BFUA's 110th Anniversary Celebration is poised to be an unforgettable experience. Umpires, both present and past, will have a chance to reconnect, reminisce, and share stories of their time on the field. Additionally, this event provides an opportunity for attendees to witness the remarkable progress and evolution of the BFUA over the past century. BFUA Chairperson Deb Sleep expressed her excitement, saying, "The BFUA's 110th Anniversary Celebration is a milestone that speaks to our enduring commitment to football and the umpiring fraternity. We look forward to bringing together a diverse group of individuals who have dedicated themselves to the sport, as well as their loved ones. This event will allow us to celebrate our shared history, honour the contributions of our umpires, and create lasting memories." To secure a place at this historic gathering, tickets are available for purchase at the price of $35 per person. Interested individuals can reserve their tickets by visiting the official event booking page: https://www.trybooking.com/CJELK The Ballarat Football Umpires Association looks forward to welcoming the football community, including current and former umpires, family members, friends, and all those who share a passion for the game. Don't miss out on this exceptional occasion to honour our shared heritage and celebrate the enduring spirit of the BFUA. For media inquiries and further information, please contact: Name: Billy Mitchell Title: Head of Umpiring Operations Email: admin@bfua.org.au Phone: 0400 477 251

The BFUA is now accepting registrations for new and existing umpires for the 2023 season. Register before Christmas to go into the draw to win!

A number of our umpires attended the Western Bulldogs versus St Kilda game a few weeks ago.