Building Stronger Communities Through Football
ELBFA connects Filipino and Australian communities through football, youth development, mentoring, leadership and inclusive community programs.
More than football
ELB Filipino-Australian Football Association Inc. uses football to encourage participation, teamwork, confidence, personal growth and stronger community relationships.
Building on the academy and outreach work established by Elmer “Lacknet” Bedia, ELBFA creates opportunities for players, young people, families, coaches, volunteers and community organisations in Australia and the Philippines.
From the pitch to an incorporated community
Four decades of football, coaching and community work — leading to ELBFA becoming an Australian incorporated entity in 2021.
- 1962Born in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo
Elmer “Lacknet” Bedia was born in a Philippine community with a long football tradition.
- 1979Barotac Nuevo & Don Andres Soriano Memorial Cup
Played for Barotac Nuevo in the National Football League; performances drew the attention of Philippine Air Force FC.
- 1981 – 1984Three-time PSA Mr. Football Award
Received the Philippine Sportswriters Association Mr. Football Award in 1981, 1983 and 1984.
- 1986Moved to Australia
Joined Brisbane Olympic United Football Club, playing for approximately nine years.
- 1991Philippines at Southeast Asian Games
Included in the Philippine national squad for the 1991 Southeast Asian Games.
- 2013Elmer Lacknet Bedia Football Academy established
The academy was established to support football development, coaching and youth opportunities in Australia and the Philippines.
- 24 March 2021ELBFA becomes an Australian incorporated entity
ELB Filipino-Australian Football Association Inc. became active on the Australian Business Register under ABN 82 693 009 398.
- TodayFootball, community and Football for Peace
ELBFA continues football development, mentorship, tournaments and Australian–Philippine community activities.
Community, cultivated by football
Impact figures will be published once verified by the ELBFA committee.
Developing players and people
From grassroots through to leadership — six pathways in one community organisation.
Grassroots Football
Entry-level football activities focused on participation, enjoyment, fundamental skills and teamwork.
Youth Football Development
Structured sessions supporting technique, confidence, discipline and game understanding.
Education and Personal Development
Programs combining sport with social development, resilience, responsibility and leadership.
One-on-One Coaching
Individual football development focused on skills, confidence, personal goals and improvement.
Coaching and Mentoring
Development opportunities for coaches, volunteers, mentors and emerging community leaders.
Tournaments and Community Events
Football competitions, community days, cultural events and fundraising activities.
A legacy built through football
Born in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, Elmer “Lacknet” Bedia progressed from youth football to become a recognised figure in Philippine football.
He played for Barotac Nuevo, Philippine Air Force Football Club, Brisbane Olympic United Football Club and the Philippine national team. After his playing career, he continued supporting junior coaching, grassroots football, mentorship and community development in Australia and the Philippines.
- Philippines International
- Philippine Air Force FC
- Brisbane Olympic United FC
- Academy Founder (2013)
Sport that brings people together.
ELBFA uses football as a platform for participation, connection, mentorship and stronger communities — across cultures, ages and backgrounds.
Where the community comes together
Tournaments, community days and Football for Peace activities across Australia and the Philippines.
No upcoming events have been published yet
Follow ELBFA on Facebook for current announcements, or enquire about hosting an event with us.
Help build the next generation.
ELBFA welcomes businesses, football organisations, councils and community groups that want to support youth development, cultural connection and meaningful football opportunities.
ELBFA is not currently registered for GST and is not entitled to receive tax-deductible gifts.
- Football equipment & uniforms
- Venue hire & travel support
- Coaching & mentoring
- Football for Peace programs
- Community & tournament events
- Participant assistance
Values that carry every match
Community
We build lasting relationships across cultures and generations.
Respect
We treat every player, family and partner with dignity.
Inclusion
Football belongs to everyone — regardless of background or ability.
Discipline
We back potential with the habits that turn it into progress.
Leadership
We grow leaders on the pitch and in the community.
Cultural Connection
We celebrate the shared story of Filipino and Australian communities.
Everyone has a place on the pitch.
Players, coaches, families, volunteers, schools and community organisations — there are many ways to be part of ELBFA.