News from the Den

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING The Burnside Heights Football Club advises that the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Monday 1st December 2025, commencing at 7pm, at the BHFC Clubrooms. Any financial member wishing to nominate for a committee position is required to attend the AGM and complete a Committee Nomination Form, available by emailing secretary@bhfcbears.com.au All 2025 financial members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

We recently held our 2025 awards night for our Junior Programs from U10 to U16. Photos and Award Winners from the night are enclosed in the images below. Click the images for larger versions.

Burnside Heights Football Club is thrilled to announce that Damien Gillman has been appointed Senior Men’s Head Coach. Damien brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for player development, setting high standards both on and off the field. As a key part of our program in his role as Assistant Coach over the past 3 years, he has been instrumental in developing players, driving standards, and strengthening our culture. His focus on building a strong, united program and his commitment to the Bears’ values make him the ideal choice to lead our men’s program into the future. Damien said: "I’m incredibly proud to take on the role of Senior Men’s Head Coach. This club means a lot to me, and I’m excited to build on the strong foundations we’ve set. My focus will be on developing our players, continuing to raise standards, and creating an environment where everyone can thrive. I can’t wait to get to work with the playing group and coaching team as we prepare for 2026." President, Scott Seward said: "We are thrilled to appoint Damien as Senior Men’s Head Coach. He has been a driving force behind the growth of our program and has earned the respect of our players, coaches, and members. Damien embodies the standards and culture we want at Burnside Heights and is the right person to guide the next phase of our football journey."  We’re excited to see Damien take the next step in his coaching journey and lead the Bears in 2026 and beyond.

Dear Bears, We’re proud to be a club that values respect – for the game, the umpires, and everyone involved. Given recent events at local footy, we just want to remind our friends, families and fans, 👉 Passion is welcome. Abuse is not. 👉 Let’s be role models for the next generation. 👉 Let’s back our umpires, coaches, and volunteers. 👉 Let’s create a club environment we can all be proud of. There’s no place for abuse. Let’s continue to be a club people are proud to be part of. #GoBears #RespectTheGame #PlayFair #ProudtobeaBear

We’re thrilled to announce that James Highgate will be stepping into the role of Junior Coordinator at Burnside Heights Football Club. James has been a passionate and dedicated part of our club for over a decade. After 11 years as a junior coach with the Bears, James recently coached his final game – a moment that capped off an incredible journey of mentoring, leadership, and service to the club he loves. Having originally left his junior club to play senior footy with mates, James has well and truly become a Bear through and through. His deep understanding of junior development, coupled with his passion for the game and commitment to our values, makes him the perfect person to lead our junior programs into the future. In this role, James will oversee the entire junior football program (U8–U16) for both boys and girls , ensuring strong development pathways and the continued growth of our Bears Academy. To say we’re excited about Jimmy taking on this role is an understatement. We can’t wait to see what he brings as he takes the reins and helps shape the next generation of Bears. Please join us in congratulating James and welcoming him into this new role. Go Bears 🐻

Saturday 19th July 2025 6pm till late at the Bear Cave! • A night off the field to unwind, connect and have a laugh. • No speeches, No pressure. Just good company and great vibes. • Tim Rizzoli will be at the Bear Cave to play all your favourites.

Saturday 27th July 2025 From 4:00-8:00pm Burnside Heights Recreation Reserve. Let’s celebrate the junior season that has been & wish our teams good luck for the finals! All Junior Players receive a: • Free Sausage in Bread • Free Drink • Free Lollies • A chance to win some great prizes! BBQ, Canteen & Bar will be open. Everyone is welcome!

Inside the Bear Cave Event