The Seagulls defender was earmarked as an emerging leader and thrust into the captaincy at 21 in 2012 – a winless season which proved the final dark chapter at the end of a grim seven-year period.

Positive changes started to creep in the next season when new coach Sam Rudolph arrived at Gardens Oval via the SANFL.

Port Fairy snapped a 49-game losing streak that year and scraped itself off the bottom of the ladder.

The Seagulls added another wooden spoon to their collection in 2014, despite winning four games – two more than the previous season – but the vibe remained upbeat.

Brett Evans grabbed that momentum and has taken the Seagulls to three consecutive finals series, culminating in Saturday’s grand final against Koroit.

Farley, now 26, was immersed in the club during its period of change.

“There wasn’t many players sticking around and it was hard getting flogged every week,” he said of the 2012 season.

“I got given the captaincy when I was 21 back then and I suppose the players didn’t realise how serious the issue was with the club, almost folding or merging.

“But it’s been great since Sam came and Brett following on from him, you can see the growth in the group and the players.

“I suppose it helps out the community too – they really get behind you and it’s enjoyable to come and watch when you’re actually winning. I always thought the committee always tried their hardest and the volunteers always stuck by the club even when we weren’t going too well.

“I think it was more about bringing more quality players into the club, which Sam did, and getting more professional and more fit on the field.”

Farley has spent the past two years living in Melbourne with partner Maddie Dalton, a former Port Fairy netballer, and travelled back for games.

A knee complaint delayed the start of his 2017 season and injury impacted his lead up to finals.

He recovered from a hamstring strain he suffered three weeks out from September action to reclaim his spot in the Seagulls’ back line.

He prides himself of “keeping my opponent quiet” and providing direction for his teammates.

“I don’t think I’d be too handy playing forward,” Farley said.

“I don’t mind playing back there (in defence).

“You get to know the six blokes down there and you get a connection with them.”