The City of Launceston and State Government have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding on future AFL and AFLW content in Launceston, ahead of the proposed transfer of UTAS Stadium to the new State Government entity Stadiums Tasmania.
York Park, known commonly as UTAS Stadium through a commercial sponsorship agreement, is currently owned and operated by the City of Launceston.
Following an extensive public consultation process, the Council is considering the transfer of ownership of the Stadium to the new management entity Stadiums Tasmania.
Last year the Council endorsed the draft Memorandum of Understanding, which reinforces the intention to at minimum retain the current level of AFL and AFLW content at UTAS Stadium into the future, both before and after the introduction of a Tasmanian AFL club.
Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said UTAS Stadium was a significant asset, delivering more than $30m in visitor spending within the Northern Tasmanian economy each year.
“Before we consider any formal transfer of ownership, the City of Launceston has been really keen to ensure this development of a Memorandum of Understanding with the State Government expressing clear commitments around future content at UTAS Stadium,” Mayor Garwood said.
“While the Stadiums Tasmania Act 2022 specifies that Stadiums Tasmania must continue to attract and deliver international and national sporting, entertainment and events content, we’re hopeful this Memorandum of Understanding will give additional assurance to our community that Council and State Government are committed to growing content at UTAS Stadium under a new management model, long into the future.
“The Memorandum of Understanding represents a clear, publicly stated commitment, on top of the legally binding responsibilities outlined in the Stadiums Tasmania Act 2022.”
Minister for Stadia and Events, Nic Street said the State Government and City of Launceston had worked collaboratively on the Memorandum of Understanding.
“UTAS Stadium is a key piece of infrastructure for Northern Tasmania, and the Rockliff Liberal Government is committed to securing the ongoing viability and success of the venue,” Minister Street said.
“Stadiums Tasmania’s remit includes attracting content to stadia right across the State.
“As an early commitment to this I’m very pleased to have worked with the City of Launceston on this MOU regarding AFL content.
“We will do everything we can to ensure Northern Tasmania is, at the very least, no worse off for AFL content as we work towards our own Tasmanian Team running onto the field.”
