THERE should be a local feel about the Gold Coast Suns’ haul in Monday night’s AFLW Draft, with the Sunshine State side nominating five Academy members, as well as five list spots. Expect that to be a theme for the night, as the Suns – who finished 17th on the AFLW ladder in 2024 – search for a rise up the ladder.

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2024 RECORD: 17th, 1-9-1, 54.7%
2024 PICKS: 19, 27, 30, 41, 46

LIST CHANGES:
IN: Lily Mithen (Melbourne), Pick 19, Pick 27, Pick 30, Pick 41, Pick 46
OUT: Tara Bohanna (Carlton), Vivien Saad, Jordan Membrey, Ashanti Bush, Alana Gee, Cara McCrossan, Lauren McConville (delisted), Pick 2, Pick 20, Pick 56

FIRST PICK:
Pick 19

The first choice is a simple one being top talent and pick one contender Havana Harris. In an open draft, Harris would have competed to be the first name called out on the night, so for the Suns to essentially give up Pick 19 for her is daylight robbery. She is readymade, has already been starring for Bond University, Gold Coast Suns Academy and Queensland, and will make an immediate impact at AFLW level.

It would have been fascinating had Gold Coast won the wooden spoon, with the likelihood that the Suns would have kept Pick 1 and teamed up both Ash Centra and Harris. But bringing Harris into the squad gives the future coach a prestigious talent who can play ruck, forward or midfield, and boasts elite athleticism and a booming kick.

REMAINING CROP:
Picks 27, 30, 41, 46

There realistically will not be too much intrigue for the Gold Coast Suns at this year’s draft barring a complete surprise. The side is expected to select the other four Northern Academy members with the remaining four picks, all within the range of acceptable matching. AFLW Academy member Tara Harrington and fellow midfielder and draft bolter Mia Salisbury will almost certainly be the first two in exchangeable order.

For the Picks 41 and 46, expect to hear the names of two explosive Queenslanders in Heidi Talbot and Nyalli Milne. Talbot is a North Cairns prospect with a terrific endurance base and great versatility, while Milne is one of the quickest players in the draft crop and held down an important wing role after previously being a forward-midfielder. All five are Bond University players and look set to remain teammates at the elite level.

KEY QUESTIONS:

– At what pick number will the bid for Havana Harris come?
– How many of the five Academy members will receive bids?
– Would Gold Coast pull a surprise with one of the later selections?