AFL footy at its tropical best

JUST like Christmas, an A-grade AFL game only comes once a year in the Far North.

So residents of the region should be beating a hasty path to Cazalys Stadium this afternoon to experience Aussie Rules footy at its best.

The match between the Gold Coast Suns and North Melbourne is a season opener, so should be at the top of the list for AFL fans, regardless of their allegiences.

If the teams and their support staff have travelled long distances to be here, surely local families can spare some time today to support the efforts of the code and Cazalys to bring the game so far north.

Ticket prices are not unreasonable. A family of two adults and two youngsters can enjoy the atmosphere for just $60 for general admission.

Of course, premium grandstand reserved seating prices are more ($55 adults, concession $45.50 and children $35.50) or a bit less for lower grandstand seats and some other seats.

But it is just once a year. Imagine the cost of travelling to Melbourne and buying tickets for a match at the MCG?

The round one season opener usually attracts 10,000 spectators.

Wouldn’t it be great if a couple more thousand turn up.

It may be raining, but at least it will be warm and some precipitation doesn’t hurt anyone. Just take rain coats and umbrellas.

Avoid driving to the Tills St ground, travel into the Cairns CBD and take a free shuttle bus to and from instead.

The Cazalys ground is well designed and there are plenty of facilities.

If Chinese travel agents can make the game, then why can’t you? Nick Dalton Deputy editor