POWER’S SURGE LIGHTS UP FNQ
PORT Adelaide fans departed Cazalys with a smile as wide as the Nullarbor Plain after their side’s come-from-behind victory over more fancied rivals St Kilda in the Far North’s annual AFL match on Saturday night. While rain may have deterred some supporters from attending, AFL Cairns officials will continue to push for a longer-term commitment for the showpiece matches.
AFL Cairns officials will continue to push for a long-term commitment to host major matches at Cazalys Stadium despite Saturday’s showers preventing a “full house” sign going up for the clash between St Kilda and Port Adelaide.
AFL Cairns president Gary Young said although he had hoped for about 10,000 people, he was happy with the numbers, given the wet weather.
Almost 7000 AFL supporters were in attendance on Saturday night.
Mr Young said it was great for the tourism industry because he noticed a lot of people came from out of town.
“People who were coming in with all their scarfs – you could tell they were visitors. They ate at the club then watched the footy,” he said.
“Our experience is very different than one you would get in the other cities, being able to sit on the grassy hill in the Far North.”
Mr Young said he hoped in the future the city could seek a longer-term commitment.
“When we first started this, we had three-year contracts. For us at AFL Cairns, it helps us justify to spend money on the stadium. When it’s year to year, it’s difficult,” he said.
“We are really keen to try and lock in a three-year contract.”
AFL fan Izzy Lukins, originally from Adelaide, said the experience at Cazalys Stadium was unique.
“I loved how close to the action we were, especially with only general admission tickets,” Ms Lukins said.
“It cleared up perfectly and it didn’t matter that we were sitting on mud, because we sat on rain jackets.”
Ms Lukins said it was great seeing how busy the city was.
“Back in Adelaide, you know when there is a game on because the streets are swarming with people who have gear on, and it was like that out in Cairns after.”
Franny Earp from Parramatta Park said it was great to see heaps of tourists and not just locals.
“We were chatting with other supporters in the crowd. There was a massive community atmosphere,” Ms Earp said.
Longtime St Kilda supporter Carol Scandolera said she wished more games were in Cairns.
“I loved being there. It was disappointing that we lost, but you know what, I’ve been barracking for the Saints for that long. I enjoyed the spectacle of it,” she said.
But Ms Scandolera said she would have liked it better if it was in the winter months because of the weather.
Local businesses also got to experience the benefit of having AFL in Cairns.
Food truck owner Bev Crimmins said service was hectic at the game.
“I think it’s good for Cairns local business and Cairns as a whole to bring the AFL here, I’d like to see more of it,” Ms Crimmins said.