Game on with Gillon

AFL chief scrutinises Taskforce proposal for the first time

THE AFL’s ears are open to the prospect of a Tasmanian AFL team.

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein and Taskforce chairman Brett Godfrey met with AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan in Melbourne yesterday for the first time since the Taskforce released its business case for a team earlier this month.

The business case shows how a Tasmanian club could be beneficial to the state and the AFL via a 19th licence, creating more winter tourism for Tasmania and providing more content for Australia’s biggest domestic competition.

AFL spokesman Jay Allen said the meeting had been productive, but the league was seeking more clarification from the Taskforce.

Mr Godfrey said he was willing to assist the AFL with any further information required.

“The AFL leadership advised that they had reviewed the business case but had some questions and required some clarity. It was agreed that the Taskforce and AFL would engage to ensure accuracy and improve understanding,” Mr Godfrey said.

“That is a positive as far as I’m concerned. This is not something that is going to be resolved overnight. It is about working towards an agreed process. I believe that it started in earnest today.

“They are asking questions and we’ve agreed to provide answers. We’d expect no less.

“The AFL weren’t walking away or saying no, so we are going to continue to bang the drum and solicit support until someone tells us we are wrong.

“The fact that at this moment we are engaging with the AFL on the document is a positive.”

Mr Gutwein said while it was only the first meeting, he left feeling buoyed by the opening discussions.

“I had a constructive and positive meeting with AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan,” Mr Gutwein said.

“I pointed out very clearly that the state believes the time is right for the AFL to come on board, and I am pleased that the AFL has agreed to engage with the Taskforce to seek further clarity on some issues.

“This work will begin shortly, and we look forward to ongoing discussions.”

The business case showed the team would require the same annual distribution from the AFL given to other clubs, of about $17 million, but would create an extra 11 games a season, resulting in a return of about $19 million for the AFL under the current broadcast agreement. The club would also need an annual Tasmanian Government investment of between $7.3 million (likely) and $11 million (worst-case scenario) that would return $110 million to the local economy and create 360 jobs.