LEXTON Plains Football League is standing by its decision to postpone its grand finals on Saturday.
The LPFL hierarchy called off what will be the competition's last grand final day owing to footballers and netballers having difficulties getting to Ballarat in time to meet playing schedules because of flooded roads.
The welfare and safety of those travelling was also a factor in the decision.
Ararat Eagles, Navarre and Natte-Bealiba had five teams in junior matches _ Ararat Eagles (under-13 and under-15 netball), Navarre (under-14 football, under-17 football), Natte-Bealiba (under-15 netball).
Navarre was also engaged in the senior netball grand final.
The LPFL made the call about 8.20am to postpone all grand finals until Sunday, September 12.
Eureka Stadium Ballarat remains the venue.
LPFL secretary Rod Ward said the league board wanted to assure all members and supporters the decision was not made lightly.
He said board members were fully aware some clubs, suppliers and the league had been financially penalised or inconvenienced by the postponement. Ward said the league saw little option after it became apparent teams could not reach Ballarat because of road closures caused by floods.
"The decision was made after the board consulted those clubs catering, clubs cut off and clubs at the venue.
"Updates from the Bureau of Meteorology also confirmed that with more torrential rain and high winds forecast for later in the morning and early afternoon, conditions would not improve," he said.
Ward said the LPFL also sought advice from those travelling in the "horrendous" road conditions.
"The welfare and safety of all those travelling did play a major role in the league's decision."
Eureka Stadium will be the venue for two grand finals in as many days at the weekend, with the Central Highlands Football League using the ground on Saturday.