THE AFL North Coast community came together last weekend to witness the exciting culmination of both junior and senior competitions, with a host of Camden Haven talent in action.

The C.ex Coffs International Stadium hosted ten grand finals over two action-packed days.

On Saturday, Port Macquarie Magpies outlasted the Coffs Harbour Breakers 8.10 (58) to 6.11 (47) to take out the senior men’s grand final, a match which included local players Nathan Cameron, Jack Quinlivan and Adam Hunt.

On Sunday, it was the juniors’ turn to shine.

In the Under 16s, Port Macquarie defeated the Sawtell/Toormina Saints 14.27 (111) to 2.0 (12) to claim grand final glory.

Camden Haven’s Isaac Luke and Cody Skidmore were influential in the win, with Isaac named ‘Best on Ground’ and Cody, the side’s vice captain, kicking a goal in the 99 point victory.

In the Under 14s Mixed division, Port Macquarie beat Sawtell/Toormina 7.7 (49) to 3.12 (30) in a more balanced fixture which featured Camden Haven’s Ruby Luke.

Ruby said playing in the grand final was “exciting” although a little “bittersweet” as this game marked the end of her eligibility for mixed competition, meaning she must transfer to an all-girls team next year.

Ruby said despite entering the final as favourites it was a “tough game”.

“We just listened to our coaches and their instructions, pushed through and we won.”

Camden Haven’s Elliott Luke, Harry Swain and Lachlan Wilson all played in the Port Macquarie Under 12s side which dispatched the Northern Beaches Blues 8.9 (57) to 3.6 (24).

Elliott kicked three of his side’s seven goals.

Port Macquarie Magpies juniors President Cohen Quinn expressed pride in the club’s success in 2024, noting a significant increase in player numbers.

“Coming off a very successful 2023 season we would have been forgiven for thinking 2024 may have been a less successful year,” he said.

“In hindsight nothing further could have been from the truth, with 2024 going down as one of the most successful years in the club’s history.”

By Kim AMBROSE