Morningside secured a place in the 2025 QAFLW grand final after defeating Coorparoo in a preliminary final at Jack Esplen Oval.
Background And Context
Women’s football at Morningside first appeared in 2003 when the Morningside Wildcats entered competition and won the premiership in their debut season. The Wildcats went on to claim further premierships in 2005 and 2011 before disbanding.
In 2018 the program was reformed under the Morningside Panthers banner, winning the QFAW Division 2 premiership in their return year. Progress through the divisions followed, with finals appearances across Seniors and Reserves teams and premiership success in Reserves in 2022 and 2023. In 2024 the club was granted a licence to enter the QAFLW, leading to their debut at the highest level in 2025.
2025 Season Performance
Morningside’s inaugural QAFLW campaign began strongly, with wins in their opening nine matches including a 130-point victory over Yeronga South Brisbane in Round 7. Across the season, they recorded several dominant results, including a 123-point win over Maroochydore in Round 12 and a 100-point margin over Moreton Bay in Round 13.
Losses came late in the home-and-away rounds, including against Aspley in Round 10 and Southport in Round 16. Despite this, the Panthers finished high enough on the ladder to qualify for finals.
Preliminary Final In Morningside
On Saturday, 30 August 2025, Morningside hosted Coorparoo in the preliminary final at Jack Esplen Oval. The Panthers secured a 5.3 (33) to 1.5 (11) win, advancing to the grand final in their first QAFLW season.
Key performers included Laura Roy with 30 disposals, a goal and strong midfield impact, supported by Gracie Roy, Isabella Levine and Greta Liell-Cock. Young talents such as Annabel Peacock, who sealed the match with a late goal, Harlee McIlwain and Zoe Petrides also contributed.
Coorparoo’s best included Ayla Fetahagic with 19 disposals and eight tackles, and ruck Renee Teys with 23 hitouts and 12 tackles.
Grand Final Result
Morningside faced Southport in the 2025 QAFLW grand final on Sunday, 7 September at Brighton Homes Arena. Southport won the decider with a score of 15.9 (99) to 3.2 (20), with Morningside finishing runners-up in their debut season at state league level.
Outlook
Morningside’s debut QAFLW season marked a significant milestone for the club, advancing from past successes in community competitions to reaching the grand final in the state’s top women’s league. Their progression reflects the strength of their female pathway program and sets a foundation for future seasons.
Published 15-Sep-2025