GETTING CRICKET BACK
Q
A T20 international arrives at Metricon next Saturday: What role did you play in getting it here?
A
Sports Gold Coast has for over two years been working through its committee of talented well-connected Gold Coast businessmen – Kerry Watson, Alan Thompson, Nick Hare and Jonathan Crisp – along with council and the Gold Coast Dolphins to upgrade the city’s cricket infrastructure to attract international cricket and the Big Bash. It was fundamental that the end game was to promote cricket and get Gold Coast corporates behind local cricket. Council immediately stepped in offering $250,000. Sports Gold Coast assisted the Dolphins in obtaining a $500,000 grant from the State Government. Cricket Queensland have offered $50,000. Gold Coast business needs to raise $750,000. Sports Gold Coast is the vehicle for local business to be involved by becoming a Front Foot Foundation class member. Front Footers not only assist local cricket and create a legacy but also enjoy certain member benefits with corporate tickets to Big Bash games and other sport events.
Q
So what’s your long-term ambition for cricket?
A
Sports Gold Coast’s ambition is to find 50 Coast business owners prepared to contribute $5000 per year for at least three years and thereafter perhaps $2500 as Front Footers which will underwrite a campaign for a permanent Big Bash licence on the Gold Coast and support local cricket at the same time. The Front Footers will eventually form a separate non-for-profit entity in time in conjunction with universities, council, the Suns and representatives from local cricket to attract international cricket tournaments to the Coast, underwrite a Big Bash team and above all ensure funds flow to local clubs.