The origins of the clubs can be traced back to 1861, when a "football" [note 1] match was played in Warrnambool. The club was formed shortly after, being one of the oldest football clubs in Australia.
In 1913 the club won its first premiership, playing in the Western District Football Association. Warrnambool entered into recess in 1915 due to World War I, returning to action in 1920 under the named "Warrnambool City". In 1924, the club merged with South Warrnambool to form "Warrnambool FC", winning flags in 1924 and 1927. Nevertheless, the club divided again in 1928, with Warrnambool City reverting to its original name.
The Blues switched to the Hampden Football League, where the club achieved a large success, winning no less than one premiership per decade. Warrnambool also claimed a hat trick of flags, accomplishing that honor twice.[3]
Football Premierships
Warrnambool team of 1912
Seniors
Western District Football Association (2)
1913, 1914
Warrnambool District and Corangamite Football Association (1)
^The source indicates "English football", which could refer to both, association football (which sounds improbable due to the game was ruled in 1863) or rugby football, more similar to Australian football and played since about 1845 in England
