Played in gusty conditions at J. L. Murphy Reserve in Port Melbourne.

"We had a really solid first quarter, with some great team play," she said.

"They came back at us in the second, but we kept positive, listened to the coaches and continued to play some good footy.

"Obviously the wind was a huge factor, but at the end of the day we were able to hold off for a win in what was a really, good competitive game."

The Colts are new to the Premier Division, winning promotion after their Division One win last season.

Grant, who was her team's leading goalkicker alongside Erin Ross with two apiece, said it was important to get the season off to a winning start.

"We've been training for six months for this - it's really nice to get the win, come home and train again this week and look at where we can improve and get ready for our hit-out against St Kilda," she said.

"It was a solid team performance, all 25 girls contributed to the win which was fantastic."

Jess Kennedy, one of five Thunder girls to train over the summer with the AFL women's academy, rated as the team's best.

The Thunder led by 21 points at half time and were able to keep their rivals at bay during a closely-fought second half.

Bendigo Thunder 6.6 (42) defeated Port Melbourne Colts 3.6 (24)

Goals: Erin Ross 2, Emma Grant 2, Sarah Last 1, Hayley Trevean 1.

Best: Jess Kennedy, Emma Grant, Alana Long, Jac Louttit, Cassie Blakeway, Hayley Trevean.