There is increasing speculation in local sporting circles that a massive restructure of the South East region’s three football and netball competitions is under consideration in 2023.

According to information received by The SE Voice, the concept is being canvassed of a new 16-club SE league comprising the nine Mid South East football and netball clubs, the six Western Border clubs and Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara club Penola.

Various proposals have been floated in recent times about how the three football and netball competitions in the region could be restructured.

The possibility of an expanded Western Border competition with the addition of Kalangadoo and Penola was suggested last year but it was strongly rejected by those clubs.

A number of club officials have approached The SE Voice as they have heard talk of a possible 16-club competition next season.

The SE Voice has approached the SANFL for comment on the matter.

Founded in 1936, the Mid South Eastern code is one of the most stable competitions of its size anywhere in Australia with just one change to its composition in the last 56 seasons, while the Western Border competition had 12 clubs at its inception in 1964.

There has also been a contraction of the third league in this region since the voluntary merger of the Tatiara and Kowree Naracoorte leagues in 1993.

The SE Voice continues to investigate the reports to bring news to the community as it comes to light.