North Warrnambool will celebrate two major milestones this weekend, alongside chasing a Grand Final berth in the Hampden Football Netball League’s 2nd Semi Final at Hanlon Park, Portland. Veteran midfielder Matthew “Snooze” Wines will play his 350th senior game, while his younger brother Luke will mark his 200th — a proud day for the Wines family and the Eagles faithful.
Matthew’s milestone is nothing short of remarkable. Since his senior debut in 2005, Snooze has been the heartbeat of the Eagles, leading with loyalty, passion, and unwavering commitment. Beginning his football journey at age 10, he continues to wear the blue and gold with immense pride. His career is stacked with accolades — HFNL representative honours, 2018 League MVP, multiple Team of the Year selections, a Best & Fairest title, five-time club runner-up, five senior grand finals, and league life membership in 2021. He also holds the club record for games played. Few players embody the North Warrnambool spirit like Snooze, making him one of the competition’s modern greats.
Adding to the occasion, Luke Wines will play his 200th senior game. Known for his rebound and composure across half back, Luke has been a consistent and reliable figure in the Eagles’ line-up for more than a decade. His honours include the 2017 Best & Fairest and Team of the Year selections in 2021, 2022 and 2024, highlighting his value to the side. Sharing the stage with Matthew and their older brother Adam, Luke’s milestone will be a memorable family moment on one of the league’s biggest days.
On the field, North Warrnambool faces Koroit in the 2nd Semi Final, with the winner advancing straight to the Grand Final. The Saints have gathered momentum at the right time of year, while the Eagles are buoyed by their depth and talent. It promises to be a blockbuster encounter. Meanwhile, South Warrnambool and Warrnambool clash in a do-or-die 1st Semi Final — another finals classic in the making.
Away from finals, the HFNL Junior Presentation Evening shone a spotlight on emerging stars. Warrnambool’s Jagger Lynch claimed the U14 award, Camperdown’s Paddy Hassett won the U16 honour, and Portland’s Jett Lovell made history as the first Tiger to win the U18 Judd Cup. Names to watch as the next generation begins to make its mark.
