CRAIG Cameron has been appointed as the Gold Coast Suns’ General Manager of Football, while Kall Burns, the club’s longest-serving staff member, is set for a promotion to list manager ahead of the 2026 season. This strategic move is part of a broader restructuring within the Suns’ football department, initiated after Wayne Campbell’s departure to New South Wales to join the Sydney Swans’ academy.
Cameron, who stepped in as interim GM during the trade period, has now been confirmed in a permanent capacity. His role is akin to those held by Sam Power at the Western Bulldogs, Jason McCartney at Greater Western Sydney, and Andrew Mackie at Geelong. Notably, Cameron is unique among non-Victorian list bosses, having lived on the Gold Coast and worked from the Suns’ headquarters in Carrara in recent years.
Background and Career Trajectory
Cameron’s journey with the Gold Coast Suns began in late 2017 when he replaced Scott Clayton after being recruited from Greater Western Sydney. His tenure at the Giants lasted 18 months, following a significant five-year period as Richmond’s head of football during Damien Hardwick’s early years at Punt Road. Prior to that, Cameron spent 11 years as Melbourne’s recruiting manager, showcasing a robust career in AFL management.
In his new role, Cameron will continue to be involved in list management while leading the Suns’ football department, focusing on football operations and accompanying the team throughout the season. This appointment reflects the club’s confidence in his leadership and strategic vision.
Kall Burns: A Journey of Dedication
Kall Burns’ journey with the Gold Coast Suns is a testament to dedication and growth. Starting as a volunteer before the club’s inaugural season in 2011, Burns moved from Melbourne to join the expansion team. His career progressed from sports science to GPS analyst, eventually leading him to the recruitment department.
Burns was promoted to national recruiting manager at the beginning of 2018, shortly after Cameron’s arrival, succeeding Dom Ambrogio who moved to Brisbane. Despite interest from other clubs over the years, Burns has remained loyal to the Suns. His upcoming role as list manager marks his 16th season with the club and his first as list boss.
Strategic Implications and Future Outlook
The Suns’ decision to promote from within, particularly with Burns, underscores a commitment to stability and growth from within the organization. The club had considered bringing in Danny Daly from Brisbane, but Daly chose to stay with the Lions, leaving Burns as the natural successor.
This internal promotion strategy aligns with the Suns’ long-term vision, ensuring continuity and leveraging the deep institutional knowledge held by both Cameron and Burns. Their combined experience is expected to drive the club’s strategic objectives, particularly in player recruitment and development.
As the Suns prepare for the upcoming seasons, these leadership changes are anticipated to enhance their competitive edge. The focus will be on nurturing talent and building a cohesive team capable of challenging the league’s top contenders.
The Gold Coast Suns’ restructuring efforts are not just about filling roles but are indicative of a broader strategy to solidify their position in the AFL landscape. With seasoned professionals like Cameron and Burns at the helm, the club is poised for a promising future.
Looking ahead, stakeholders and fans alike will be keenly observing how these changes translate into on-field success and whether the Suns can capitalize on their strategic realignments to achieve their long-term goals.
