HEAD of List Management Nick Austin spoke to Carlton Media following the conclusion of the 2024 AFL Continental Tyres Trade Period.

On Matthew Kennedy’s departure:

“Matty came to us at the end of the year and he expressed a desire to play more midfield time. He played a variety of roles for us across the field this season, due to injuries and positional flexibility. 

“He wanted to play full-time midfield and the opportunity arose at the Bulldogs to do that. In good faith, we were able to get that trade done and in return we get a second-round pick which strengthens our hand going into the draft.”

On Brodie Kemp:

“That was the desired outcome really. It came up pretty late to be fair, in the last 24-48 hours when it came up as a possibility. Brodie is a really important player. 

“He’s 23 years old, he provides flexibility at both ends of the field: it was going to take something pretty significant to come our way and that didn’t happen. We’re delighted for Brodie to still be part of our footy club as a contracted player going into 2025.”

On the acquisition of pick No.3:

“For us to go in with picks 12 and 34 and walk away with a pick in the top three of the draft, it’s a terrific result. We’ll be able to add a significant part of our future. 

“It’s a really strong draft, we’ve declared that from the beginning. To be participating at the pointy end is really exciting.”

On Matthew Owies’ departure:

“Matty has given great service to our footy club, he’s done a wonderful job. The opportunity came for security, which he has at the Eagles with a three-year deal.

“It’s a great opportunity for Matt, we wish him all the best at the Eagles and thank him for his contribution to the footy club. Being part of that deal allowed us to get pick No.3, so we feel it was a good result for both.”

On next steps:

“We’ll take stock now. We’ve still got a little bit of work to do on the draft. Clearly it’s going to watch the best of the best, work our way through that and get our final draft order. It’s a really exciting time for our Club, we’re looking forward to it.”