Mr Murphy said the past four months had been a turbulent period with the seniors finishing in 10th place last year and the reserves finishing 9th.

"Everyone knew there was a lot of work to be done," he said.

"In fact there was discussion whether a committee could even be formed, let alone a playing side or a club for season 2006."

Mr Murphy said in December a passionate "group of six" decided they wouldn't let the club die.

"They weren't sure how they were going to do it, but they were determined," he said.

Peter Olivieri was announced as coach for the season while Hepburn Shire Mayor Heather Mutimer was declared Number 1 ticket holder.

Mr Murphy said new players had been recruited - although more were still needed along with club supporters.

The team will have its first match on Saturday against Newstead,

"The club is urging all locals to come down and support the team," Mr Murphy said.

"Following the match, at 5.30pm, the club is inviting supporters back to the home of one of their sponsors, the Trentham Hotel in High St, Trentham."

The club is also holding a raffle with first prize a Ford BF from Sunford in Kyneton, second prize a Pacific cruise from Kyneton JetSet and third, an LG 76cm widescreen television.

Tickets are $25 and available at the ground or from Mr Murphy on 5424 1134.

Meanwhile, other Maryborough Castlemaine District Football League games are Avoca vs Royal Park, Harcourt vs C/Creek, Talbot vs Carisbrook, Maldon vs Dunolly and Rovers bye.

Central Highlands Football League games on Saturday are Ballan vs Newlyn, Learmonth vs Daylesford, Gordon vs Dunnstown, Springbank vs Waubra, Creswick vs Hepburn, Buninyong vs Beaufort and Clunes vs Bungaree.