Harley Bennell is Borough Bound

By Borough Media on February 9, 2023

Former inaugural Gold Coast Suns player and No-2 draft pick, Harley Bennell has signed with Port Melbourne for the 2023 VFL season.

The 185cm, 30-year-old played 88 AFL games over his 10-year career, pulling on the Suns, Freo, and Dees guernsey.

Bennell averaged 21 disposals and kicked 98 goals. 2012 was his most consistent year, playing all 22 games and kicking 25 goals for the Suns. He also finished the season second in the club’s best and fairest behind Gary Ablett, Jr.

Bennell was selected in the Indigenous AFL All-Stars side in 2013 that played against Richmond. He was named man of the match and received the Polly Farmer Medal.

“When I spoke to Harley a few weeks ago and it was very evident to me from the start that he has a strong focus and desire to play at the highest level he can and play a major role in contributing to group success, which is exactly what we want at our club.

For us to have the opportunity to bring to our club somebody of Harley’s calibre with his experience and on-field ability at this stage in the pre-season, is very exciting and we can’t wait for him to get down to Melbourne and get started as he is sure to excite the red and blue faithful”, says Football Manager, Glenn Balmforth.

Bennell has been playing for the Tiwi Bombers in the Northern Territory Football League. He recently featured in the NTFL representative side’s win over South Fremantle at TIO Stadium.

“I’m really excited to get down to Melbourne to meet my new teammates and coaching staff for 2023. I’m just happy to be playing footy at a high level again and whatever happens on the way is a bonus, so I’m going to enjoy this one,” says Bennell.