Trevor Smart appointed to key SANFL regional role

29 January 2026

SANFL is pleased to announce the appointment of Trevor Smart as Community Football Operations Coordinator (South East). 

The appointment, which follows the retirement of Michael Mourbey, will ensure ongoing support for leagues and clubs in the region.  

Smart, to be based in Mount Gambier, will be responsible for administering the Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara League (KNTL), Mid South Eastern Football League, Limestone Coast Football Netball League and Limestone Coast Women’s Football League, while also assisting with club development initiatives.

Smart brings extensive leadership and community experience to the role, having served a long career in local government as chief executive for several regional councils in South Australia, including the District Council of Grant, the Naracoorte Lucindale Council, and Ceduna Council which encompassed running the Far West Football League at the time. 

In addition to his local government leadership, Smart has provided strategic support to football in the South East, with previous roles including Chair of the Limestone Coast Regional Football Council and President of the Western Border Football League.  

SANFL Head of Community Football Shawn Ford said Smart, who has also umpired country football for many years, would bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. 

“Trevor’s deep understanding of regional communities and passion for the game make him a valuable addition to SANFL in the South East region,” Ford said. 

“He has the business acumen and the existing strong ties with the local communities to continue to grow and steer football in the South East in the right direction. 

“Country football is a crucial part of the social fabric of regional communities, and we recognise that leagues and their volunteers require extra resources and support from roles such as this.” 

Mourbey departs SANFL after more than eight years, during which time he has played a key role in the establishment and growth of the Limestone Coast Women’s Football League and restructure of football in the region.