You might want to check out Brighton Soccer Club in Victoria. They have always had very strong juniors since long before any of us were born - and yet not being in the top flight at seniors their talent has gone to South Melbourne, Melbourne Knights.. and other big clubs for as long as I can remember.
The NPL / VPL clubs might have the money and all but they also can have a factory mentality and kids can get left behind rather than given the time they need to develop.