While the decision remains with the newly-elected board, every club – with the exception of Panmure, who did not attend the annual general meeting – voted in favour of removing the cost-heavy exercise.

Club representatives were in favour of fielding teams in the junior interleague carnival, which takes place in Hamilton, as it offers talent identification benefits.

Interleague – officially known as the AFL Victoria Community Championships – cost the executive more than $11,000 in 2016.

Led by Dennington legend Darcy Lewis, the Warrnambool and District Football Netball League side fell to Maryborough Castlemaine District Football League by 28 points in May.

Newly-elected Ken McSween said he personally favoured the interleague concept but would discuss options with the board surrounding its future.

“My personal opinion is that I like the idea of it at senior level, and also at junior level,” he told The Standard.

“I’m not too worried if players don’t want to be involved, because you only want the players who want to be there to play.

“I don’t think we necessarily need our gun players there. I’m more leaning towards getting the best young kids involved. They’re your future, and they’re who you want to promote.

“I don’t agree with the idea that you won’t be competitive with kids in the side. They’re going to be just as determined.” The Standard understands a chunk of the interleague cost is associated with jumpers, socks and other miscellaneous items.