AlburyCity has presented plans to Melbourne Storm for a proposed long-term partnership to grow the profile of rugby league on the border.
Mayor Kevin Mack said it was an exciting opportunity to grow the relationship and to develop new opportunities for the community and the club.
“This is a strategic vision that will deliver valuable long-term benefits to our sports-loving community, while also allowing the Storm to build a home away from home right here on the border,” he said.
“We’re working closely with the Storm’s leadership to explore a program that could see the Storm become even more active in our community through increased visitation and the provision of activities that will embrace the people of Albury.
“The nature of these activities is still be decided but the idea is to increase local access to elite sport – and best of all, we have the redeveloped Lavington Sports Ground as one of Australia’s best regional sports venues as a base for the club to grow its profile with regional fans.”
Melbourne Storm CEO Justin Rodski said the club was always looking at new ways to grow the game and give more Storm fans the chance to support the club.
“The Albury-Wodonga community has been so welcoming and supportive of Storm, particularly over the last two years when we were without a place to train and play,” Mr Rodski said.
“There is a strong rugby league following and fan base in the region which we think can continue to grow. Albury City is an important partner in making this become a reality for the local teams and we are happy to look at ways in which Storm can help in the longer term.”
Cr Mack said a key aim of the partnership was to work towards hosting more Storm games at Lavington Sports Ground.
“Storm players and officials have already built a strong bond with Albury and we’re thrilled by the possibilities of developing that relationship even further as we continue to work together in the months and years ahead,” he said.
– ends –
