Last night a number of our board members had the opportunity to attend a briefing on the Macquarie Point Stadium convened by the SFL with an overview and Q&A provided by Macquarie Point Development Corporation CEO Anne Beach, and Tasmanian Football Club CEO Brendon Gale.
As a club we maintain committed to supporting the Stadium, including the associated upfront financial benefits:
* $240 million contribution to the Mac Point Precinct from the Federal Government
We note that the requirement from a stadium was a recommendation from the Tasmanian AFL Taskforce, which was accepted by the AFL. Stadium revenue is the only reason a Tasmanian licence was ever granted. Ninja Stadium and UTAS Stadium simply won’t meet these revenue requirements to ensure a Tasmanian AFL Team is financially successful.
Importantly, we accept that without a Stadium, there will be NO Team. Jeopardising a once in a lifetime opportunity for Tasmanians to play for or support their own club, and squandering a huge economic opportunity for our tourism and hospitality industry.
We heard how the plans for the stadium incorporate revenue from Football, Cricket, concerts, conferences and of course rectangular sports.
We know that local football clubs are struggling, but have seen the growth in participation in Basketball due to the JackJumpers NBL licence. Isn’t it time we give our young footballers something to aspire to in our home state?
We understand the State Government will today release enabling legislation for Tasmania to progress the new Multi-Purpose Stadium at Macquarie Point.
We encourage you to respectfully contact your local members in the Legislative Council or the House of Assembly, tell them of your own experiences and support, and what a Stadium and Team means to you and your family. The contact details are below.