The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to bring AFL games to Ballarat by working with the Western Bulldogs Football Club to strengthen its ties with this great regional city.
Premier Daniel Andrews joined Western Bulldogs President Peter Gordon and vice-captain Jordan Roughead at Eureka Stadium to unveil a new partnership that will help the club strengthen ties with Western Victoria.
The Bulldogs will wear specially-designed Ballarat-branded shorts when they take on the Adelaide Crows at the MCG tonight, their first final since 2010.
The Labor Government promised Ballarat a world-class stadium and is getting on with it. The 2015-16 Victorian Budget provides a $31.5 million upgrade of the Ballarat Major Events Precinct.
This investment includes $15 million for Eureka Stadium, $9 million for Wendouree Sports and Events Centre, $5 million for the Ballarat Showgrounds upgrade and $2.5 million towards C.E Brown Reserve.
This commitment for Eureka Stadium will allow the Bulldogs to play home and away games in Ballarat and create a stadium the local community can be proud of. The new stadium will include lighting, spectator seating and a video scoreboard.
Ballarat is a footy heartland and deserves the biggest games. AFL Premiership matches will bring visitors from all over the state and the nation, meaning more jobs, more spending in local cafes and motels and a stronger local economy.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We’re bringing the Ballarat community and Western Victoria closer to their heroes in the red, white and blue.”
“Ballarat has produced a long list of league stars. This world-class city deserves a world-class stadium and the big AFL games.”
“AFL Premiership games in Ballarat will mean more visitors, more business for local traders and a stronger economy for this great regional city.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“This isn’t just good news for Ballarat, but regional Victoria as a whole. Tourism is a key pillar of our regional economy, and big events like these ensure it continues to grow.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“Eureka Stadium is at the heart of sport in Ballarat. The Labor Government is turning it into a world-class venue, but not at the expense of grassroots players.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“The Western Bulldogs are building their connection with Ballarat and Western Victoria. We’re strengthening those ties and ensuring Ballarat’s loyal army of footy followers get the best games in their own backyard.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020