The Victorian Chamber Pitcher Partners Grand Final Lunch 2023 offered more than 500 special guests a unique and exclusive opportunity to hear from three of the biggest names in Australian sport on the one stage as we count down to footy’s biggest day of the year.

Like all good businesses and organisations, the AFL is undertaking a diligent leadership transition to ensure the league remains strong and sustainable into the future.

Our event at the MCG hosted Mr McLachlan as he prepares to step down after 23 years at the AFL and nine years at the helm, and Mr Dillon, who will formally take over in October, in an entertaining discussion moderated by Channel 7 commentator – and Gillon’s brother – Hamish McLachlan.

Key achievements under Mr McLachlan’s tenure including the establishment of the AFLW competition; multiple broadcast deals including the largest in Australian sports rights history; the establishment of AFL Media; the $250 million dollar Marvel Stadium redevelopment; expansion of the both the AFL and AFLW competitions; and leading the AFL industry through the COVID pandemic.

Highlighting the growth of the code, since 2000 it has grown from $100 million revenue to $950 million and is expected to reach $1.1 billion once the new broadcast deal starts in 2025. AFL club membership has grown from 400,000 to 1.3 million in that time as well.

Mr McLachlan said: “It’s a very different business and it’s been a special thing to be part of – that journey and the growth and the change - two more teams, multiple venues, built new stadiums - it’s been a hell of a ride and I’ve been very lucky.”

On the women’s side, a new bargaining agreement has been signed with 540 players contracted.

“It’s the biggest sport for women at a professional level in Australia by a mile,” Mr Dillon added. “It’s a great game. We’re going to continue to get more and more first-choice athletes playing.

“The game year on year has been getting better as we’ve been expanding, so it’s really exciting.”

Mr Dillon commences his role in October after 23 years in the AFL system, starting in 2000 as Legal Counsel and most recently being the Executive General Manager Football Operations.

“The role I come in to, I completely understand the responsibility that comes with it and how important footy is for everyone. It means a lot to me, it’s amazing how it just brings people together at all levels,” he said.

The audience was also heard amusing stories of their own playing days, correspondence from the public, mistaken identity, sibling rivalry - and Robbie Williams.

Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Paul Guerra lauded Mr McLaughlan’s achievements.

“Footy will find a way. Five words echoed around the country back in 2020, and has stuck with us since,” he said.

“Know that you leave a wonderful legacy. One of collaboration and partnerships, and a lesson that with the right determination and people, we can all ‘find a way’.”

Mr Guerra also offered Mr Dillon the business community’s support.

“Massive congratulations on your appointment, and we are looking forward to seeing the game progress under your leadership in the months and years ahead,” Mr Guerra said.

“You already have a wonderful platform and a wave of support behind you, and please be assured that VCCI and the business community is ready to work with you and we want you to be successful.”

The audience also enjoyed live music from legendary artist Mike Brady and live sketches from Herald Sun cartoonist Mark Knight during the event.