Their return, via women’s division two ranks, comes after a three-year hiatus and increases the south-west club’s representation in the statewide competition to three sides.

Warrnambool Seahawks will again submit division one men and division two youth league outfits.

President Jacob Sobey expects to remain in the top role in a bid to ensure a smooth transition.

“We’re pretty excited about the outcome,” he said.

“It’s the start or a new era for the Mermaids and continuation for our other teams.

“It’s the first time we’ve had three teams on the floor, so it’s going to be an exciting few months getting prepared.”

Sobey said ensuring they received a club-friendly schedule was a high priority.

“We’d like limited separate trips, so we’re on the road together,” he said.

“If we’ve got three teams at home it’d likely be 4pm, 6pm and 8pm, so it’s a long day but we’re confident with the momentum we’ve got from winning this year and the Mermaids coming back that we can build on that.”

Sobey said the committee would advertise all three coaching positions and were hopeful reigning division one championship-winning mentor Matt Alexander would be among the candidates. He confirmed it’s also in talks with import Xavier Johnson-Blount as potentially returning next season.