The Blues were busy at last night's VFL best-and-fairest, with five individuals representing the Carlton women's and Northern Blues teams recognised at the Crown Palladium. 

Carlton trio Lauren Arnell, Brianna Davey and Darcy Vescio's years were all rewarded with spots in the starting 18 in the VFL Women's Team of the Year. 

Arnell (forward pocket) and Vescio (half-forward flank) both featured in the front six, while Davey was named in the centre. 

Davey's superb season for the St. Kilda Sharks also saw her finish second in the Swisse VFL Women's best and fairest with 29 votes, behind Daisy Pearce (33 votes). 

There was also recognition for Northern Blues captain Tom Wilson, who became the first Blue in three years to feature in the VFL Team of the Year. 

Wilson was included on the bench in the squad of 24, after a career-best season for the Blues in what was also his first year as club captain. 

The team - with only VFL-listed players eligible - also included former Blue and now VFL Bulldog Jordan Russell. 

Wilson also polled the most votes of any Blue in the Liston Trophy with seven, ahead of Liam Jones who was adjudged to have best-on-ground performances in Rounds 2 and 18.  

Williamstown's Michael Gibbons took out the award with 17 votes.  

After a decade as Northern Blues President, Stephen Papal was also honoured on the night as one of six individuals awarded VFL Life Membership.  

Papal started out as Northern President in 2007, after nearly 20 years with Bundoora in the Northern Football League. 

Papal has enjoyed two grand finals in his time at the club, while he also oversaw the club's transition to the Northern Blues in 2012.