The success of this year’s Gather Round games at Mt Barker has proven once again that the region has what it takes to hold a first-class, national event.
Two sell-out AFL games at Mt Barker were complemented by a wide range of family activities around the region across four days last week.
Feedback from stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive.
Despite this, Mt Barker is at risk of losing the fixtures next year, after a $40m State Government/Barossa Council partnership was announced to upgrade a local oval and ensure a game is held in that region.
Premier Peter Malinauskas has already made it clear that holding at game in the Barossa means another region will miss out.
There are many towns and suburbs vying for a Gather Round game, looking to benefit from the economic boost they bring from inter- and intrastate tourism.
While the Hills region enjoyed two games this year, it’s understandable that, as other regions come on board, it may not continue to attract back-to-back games in future rounds.
But the region is perfectly situated to host national events such as Gather Round games, offering close access to Adelaide, world-class wineries and restaurants and an AFL-grade football oval at the Summit Sport and Recreation Park.
The Mt Barker Council and the community have also worked hard over the past two years to bring the local facilities up to scratch and to provide the additional hospitality support, entertainment and events that are required to host thousands of visitors as part of a national event.
That work should continue to be rewarded.
While the final fixtures have historically been decided by the AFL, the State Government has had the opportunity to provide input and it’s important that it doesn’t abandon its support for the Hills during discussions about next year’s fixtures.
Let’s hope we see many more AFL games played in the town over the next few years.
