From Mansfield, Thomson has been a member of the commission for three years and will replace Peter Foott as chairman.
A long-standing commissioner, Foott is retiring alongside Peter Nelson, both having served their maximum three terms.
Thomson was full of praise for his predecessors.
“Peter Foott was an original commissioner and has served as chairman for five years. In that time the region has consolidated its position strategically, functionally and financially with Peter Nelson acting as finance director,” Thomson said.
“During COVID-19, the role of the Goulburn Murray Commission was to ensure it led community football through the testing times and was in a position to support the game in its return.”
Supported by several grants during the COVID-19 pandemic, AFL Goulburn Murray recorded a $32,075 surplus for the reporting period.
Thomson said this strong financial position was a reflection of the retiring commission leads and meant the body was well-placed to continue its work with the new-look team.
“The new commission met for the first time immediately following the AGM and welcomed Bruce Rowley, who has extensive management experience with the CFA and local government. Whilst previously being a club president, Bruce is a valued addition to the governance team,” he said.
“As a region, we are working closely with AFL Victoria and have commenced the recruitment process for a region manager who can provide strong leadership at the management level.”
It is sure to be a big year at AFL Goulburn Murray, with football well and truly back and a new era for the commission about to begin.
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