Andrew Barr has announced that he’s sealed the deal with the Greater Western Sydney AFL team for a ten year partnership with the ACT.
“This is the most significant day in the 80 year history of AFL in Canberra,” Mr Barr said. “This partnership has secured at least 40 matches for the ACT over the next ten years, giving this team a
second home base at Manuka Oval.”“However it is about more than just matches. It is about ensuring that we have a full-time AFL presence
on the ground, in our schools, in our clubs and in our community, while also presenting clear pathways
for our best young footballers to get to the top through the local GWS Academy.“This is a unique partnership, unlike any other that currently exists in the AFL. We will be part-owner of
this new team from its very foundation, right from the moment that its name, colours and jumper are
unveiled next week. Our ownership will be reflected in an ACT-appointment to the Board, a permanent
reference to our community on the team’s jumper, and perhaps most significantly, a specifically stylised
match-day jumper for home games at Manuka Oval from 2012.”
The key points of the agreement are:
- • At least 40 games played in the ACT over the next ten years, including three premiership games and one preseason game each year.
• Establishment of a GWS ACT Academy to help develop young local talent to its potential.
• Year-round engagement of GWS players, coaches and staff in the local community, including school visitation, football development and additional community activities.
• An ACT representative on the GWS Board.
• Permanent representation of the ACT community on the playing jumper and an ACT-specific stylised jumper for home games in Canberra.
• Participation of the GWS reserves team in the peak local competition, further enhancing the local league and improving talent pathways.
• Annual Community Camp conducted in the ACT.
• Partnership payment to GWS of $1.15m per annum from 2012-13, with revenue guarantee of $400,000 for each premiership game.
• Long-form contract to be complete by mid-2011.