The Banga is back at Beaumaris

Nick Armistead
There’s rarely a shortage of inspirational and emotionally charged stories in the world of local football – and especially within the VAFA – but the story of Lachlan Francis is quite possibly where these tales peak.
At 7:15pm tonight, the feel-good story of the year will unfold at Banksia Reserve when ‘Banga’ returns to Shark Park after a four-year battle with leukaemia.
Yep, you read that right. Amazing.
The son of Mark (Thirds Coach) and Tracey (Club Secretary) received his cancer diagnosis when he was just 15yo and, after four years of treatment, was given the all-clear in 2020.
“Lachie has been doing footy training since October last year but hadn’t been given medical clearance to play,” Club President Terry Lucas said.
“He finally got the green light.”
Upon the news of Lachie’s return, the VAFA community rallied with their own messages of support:
- This is truly amazing, on behalf of the Parkdale Vultures congratulations Lachie – Parkdale Vultures FC
- Good luck Banga, have a ball mate – Aquinas OCFC
- We’re looking forward to seeing Lachie ‘Banga’ Francis’ return to footy tomorrow night under the lights Beaumaris Football Club. Good luck Lachie – the Banga is back! – Old Trinity FC
Lachlan joined the Sharks when he was seven years old and played 119 games and won two premierships throughout his junior career.
Tonight, coached by his father, he will look to secure the Sharks’ first win of the Thirds Division 1 season against Old Trinity.
Good luck tonight, Banga. We’re all behind you.
More News
More
VAFA continues with SKINS in the game
The VAFA is pleased to announce a two-year extension of its partnership with the pioneers of compression sportswear, SKINS. This new deal covers the 2025 and 2026 seasons and sees

William Buck Premier Men’s Season Preview – PART 1
The 2024 season lifted the William Buck Premier Men’s competition to new heights, with 9 of the 10 teams locked into thrilling finals or relegation races that went all the