The Inverloch Football Club began its journey in 1920, with players donning a distinctive uniform: a white singlet over a blue v-necked jumper. Participation required a modest fee of one shilling. The early days were challenging, with minimal facilities (players often resorted to using a nearby dam for post-game washes), and fundraising was as simple as passing a hat around the crowd
World War II brought a temporary halt to the club’s activities, but in 1945, under the guidance of Secretary Jim Wyeth, the community rallied to revive it. Residents donated Clothing Ration Tickets to procure new jumpers, and local establishments like the Pine Lodge Guest House, then a Naval Hospital, saw seven of its 27 staff playing for the club. The Ladies Committee played a pivotal role, using a wood stove under a hessian-covered frame to prepare soup and hot dogs, with profits funding the club’s first change rooms, now the Scout Hall.
In 1952, the club’s fortunes soared with the appointment of Les Baker, the district’s first professional coach. His leadership ushered in a golden era, culminating in premierships in 1953, 1955, and 1956. By 1957, a merger with the Kongwak Club led to the formation of the Inverloch-Kongwak Combined Football Club, a union that has since secured 24 premierships across all grades, including six senior titles.
Today, IKFNC stands as a beacon of sporting excellence and community engagement. Our teams continue to compete passionately in the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition, with recent seasons showcasing our commitment to excellence. In 2023, our A Grade netball team made history by completing a perfect season, culminating in a grand final victory over Tooradin-Dalmore, marking the first ‘premiers and champions’ title in the competition’s history.
Looking ahead, we are committed to nurturing talent, enhancing our facilities, and strengthening our community bonds.
