Peter Gutwein,Premier
Tasmania has shown that it can host AFL matches in a COVID-safe way, informed by Public Health advice and by having important safeguards in place.
Following discussions with Public Health and the AFL, and subject to the COVID-19 situation in Queensland and Victoria remaining on track, Tasmania will host two AFL matches across two consecutive days next weekend for the second time this season.
The two matches will be the previously scheduled game at Blundstone Arena in Hobart between North Melbourne and Geelong, followed by the extra game on Sunday at UTAS Stadium, between Hawthorn and the Brisbane Lions.
This means Tasmanian AFL fans can enjoy another blockbuster weekend over two consecutive days, allowing them to get out and about across the State and support their local businesses, especially the tourism and hospitality sector.
Importantly, both games will be subject to strict conditions to ensure the games can proceed in a COVID-safe way, with the Melbourne teams flying in and out of Tasmania on the day of the game, and both games subject to the COVID risk continuing to be monitored by Public Health.
There will be a crowd limit of 10,000 attendees at both matches, and if attending, you will be required to wear a mask – similar to our requirement for the Festival of Voices event held recently.
Thanks to the AFL and the clubs involved for working so closely and constructively with the Government and our Public Health authorities for ensuring we can hold these matches in safe way.
My message to Tasmanians is to get out and about and enjoy these games, but if you are coming to the footy – it’s not just your scarf or beanie that you need to bring along – you’ll also need your mask.
