Footy fans pay penalty
Cairns kicked into touch by NRL and AFL
CAIRNS has become a sporting leper colony with both the AFL and NRL putting Far North footy fans in quarantine.
The two codes have snubbed Cairns on their game rosters for 2019 – a boot in the guts for thousands of devotees like Carol Johnson who wait all year for a hometown match.
The North Queensland Cowboys disciple has urged fans to kick up a stink in the hope the NRL and AFL will see the error of their ways.
“Here’s hoping for 2020,” she said.
“Bombard them with enough complaints now and maybe they will change their mind next time around.”
Tourism Minister Kate Jones said she was surprised at the snub.
“This is yet another example of shortsighted thinking by our footy codes,” she said.
“It’s disappointing that both major codes have decided to take their regional Queensland games elsewhere in 2019.
“I know these are commercial decisions but it seems out of touch to walk away from growing their fan base in Far North Queensland.”
NRL team the South Sydney Rabbitohs took home games to Cairns, Perth and Gosford last year but have switched out the Far North for the Sunshine Coast next year.
Cazalys Stadium has hosted elite AFL games every year since 2011. Most recently the Gold Coast Suns headed north while their stadium was occupied for the Commonwealth Games. Next year, nothing. Cairns MP Michael Healy said the commercial decisions were made by the AFL and NRL.
“At this stage there’s nothing we can do for next year,” he said.
“I would never stop talking to those two codes to ensure that they are aware that State Government money is available.
“We would love to have them up here annually playing in the Far North.”
Ms Johnson wanted
“It’s a shame they didn’t approach other teams,” Ms Johnson answers. said. “Imagine if they had a Broncos and Cowboys game up here.
“With the AFL as well, the Gold Coast Suns have decided to go elsewhere.
“What about the AFL approaching other teams to have a home game in Cairns?”
Gold Coast Suns CEO Mark Evans did not respond to calls.
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