REDLAND-Victoria Point finally broke through for their first premiership with a commanding win over Surfers Paradise in the 2025 TPIL Lawyers QAFL Grand Final at Brighton Homes Arena.
The Sharks made it third time lucky after finishing runners-up in both 2023 and 2024 Grand Finals.
Star forward Matt Hammelmann was unstoppable, booting nine goals to steer his side to a 14.11 (95) to 8.9 (57) victory.
His dominant display earned him the Joe Grant Medal as Best on Ground.
The premiership also marked a fairytale farewell for senior coach Phil Carse, who bows out in style after guiding the Sharks to the club’s long-awaited breakthrough.
The win ended a 26-year drought, sparking wild celebrations across the Redlands and heartfelt tributes to the popular coach and club stalwart.
State Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said the premiership was a proud moment for the whole community.
“This Grand Final win is a huge moment for the Redland-Victoria Point Sharks and for our whole community,” she said.
“To take out the premiership with such a strong 95 to 57 victory shows the talent, hard work and determination of our players, coaches and volunteers.
“It was also a fitting send-off for head coach Phil Carse in his final game with the club – a true testament to his leadership and legacy.
“The Sharkies have done the Redlands proud, and this achievement will be remembered as one of the great highlights in our local sporting story.
“Wins like this inspire our Redlands youth, showing them what’s possible when you work hard, back yourself and believe in your team.”
Supporters flooded social media with congratulatory messages, reflecting the depth of passion for the club.
“Congratulations to all of you. Finally got there. What a great feeling that was to see you guys take home the cup,” wrote fan Kimberley Barry.
Others praised the role of Carse, with Deb Osland calling the victory “so impressive” and adding, “Well done team and bravo Carsey!”
Alan Jenkin agreed, saying: “Congratulations to Phil Carse and the whole club on a well-deserved flag.”
Lisa Campbell summed up the pride felt across the community: “Boof and I watched with such pride to see another premiership win at the Sharks. Well done and what a way to go out.”
Fans celebrated from far and wide, with Catherine Bradfield tuning in from Spain, writing: “We woke up early and watched the livestream … wouldn’t have missed it for the world!”
Messages of support poured in from local sporting clubs and mates alike.
Redlands Rays Baseball Club simply posted: “Congrats Sharks!!!”
Trisha Squires, Head of AFL Queensland and International, praised the Sharks’ achievement in breaking through for their maiden flag.
“Well done to Senior Coach Phil Carse and all the players for etching their names into the Queensland Australian rules football history books.
“Today was a wonderful celebration of our game.”
