Promise to boost KGV park

FOOTBALL of the round ball variety continues to score goals with Labor pledging $1.2 million to upgrade KGV Football Park if elected.

Following on from the announcement of A-League expansion, opening the door for a possible Tasmanian team, and continued strong participation, the state’s home of football will receive funding for upgraded men’s and women’s change rooms, medical, canteen and parenting rooms and other spectator facilities if a majority Labor government is elected.

Football Federation Tasmania chief executive Mike Palmer said while the investment would not make KGV A-League compliable, it would make it the premium venue for local competitions.

He said he hoped Labor’s commitment would be backed by the Liberals.

“We would certainly like to be in a position that come the election result we do well out of that and we are hoping that will be the case,” Mr Palmer said.

“We are very grateful for the political support we get but we think we deserve it.

“We are a very high participation sport, we certainly think we justify a fair bit of investment and we’d like to see that happen.”

Labor’s commitment to KGV is on top of a $2.5 million package to grassroots clubs.

Opposition Treasury spokesman Scott Bacon said Labor would co-contribute funding with Football Federation Tasmania and local clubs towards major facility upgrades of 20 clubs around Tasmania.

“This money will go towards major upgrades at clubs all over Tasmania including upgrades to lighting and change room facilities,” Mr Bacon said.

“We can increase participation and create healthier communities by investing in our local clubs.”

Both main parties have also pledged money for an artificial pitch in Launceston, matching the all-weather surfaces already in operation in Hobart and Devonport.

Mr Palmer also said if the Tasmanian A-League bid was successful, there would be further demand for venues and facilities.

“If we were able to get an A-League team there is no doubt the (participation) numbers would only go up and that would put even greater pressure on infrastructure,” Mr Palmer said.

“So this is all very timely in advance of that happening.”