South Australian Government Set to Unveil Significant Gather Round Update Following Fans’ Outcry Over ‘Robbery’

The AFL in collaboration with the South Australian government is set to unveil initiatives aimed at motivating footy enthusiasts to attend next week’s Gather Round in Adelaide.

Nine’s Eddie McGuire shared insights regarding the anticipated benefits that are expected to be revealed in the upcoming days.

This announcement follows concerns raised by various AFL club supporter groups regarding the high costs associated with travelling to Adelaide for the four-day footy extravaganza, scheduled from April 9 to April 12, which will include all 18 teams.

In previous years, the event has attracted enormous crowds, with the league boasting an impressive total of nearly 270,000 attendees last year, around 52,000 of whom were reported to have travelled from interstate.

Fans journey from all corners of South Australia, with some making lengthy drives to participate in the festivities and support their teams.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has led to soaring oil prices, resulting in increased costs for accommodation and food, making many sports fans hesitant about making the trip to Adelaide this year.

“Prepare for significant announcements regarding Gather Round in the coming days,” McGuire informed Nine’s Footy Classified.

“I’m optimistic there will be an extension of events. Additionally, I believe there will be discounts on fuel for those driving to South Australia; you might find some cheaper petrol in Bordertown.”

“The South Australian government is also formulating plans for Victorians travelling there, aiming to make the journey more affordable.”

“Kudos to Premier Peter Malinauskas and the SA government for their initiatives, and to the AFL for embracing the idea and transforming it into a fantastic event.”

Bordertown, a small settlement in South Australia, sits just over the border from Victoria.

Despite potential petrol relief, it is anticipated that thousands of fans will refrain from making the journey to Gather Round this year.

Richmond’s official cheer squad has previously transported up to 100 members from Melbourne to Adelaide, but that figure is likely to see a significant decline this time around, should they travel at all.

“Even now, many who are planning to attend are thinking, ‘Let’s hold off and see how things pan out a week before the match,’” stated Tigers cheer squad chairman Gerard Egan in comments to InDaily South Australia last week.

“I’m looking to drive, but if fuel restrictions and rationing are implemented, I’m not keen on the risk of driving and potentially getting stranded in the middle of South Australia with no petrol.”

Richmond’s cheer squad isn’t the only fan group voicing concerns regarding expenses.

“This is the first time we’ve found it necessary to stay overnight if we attend, and typical hotel rates are exceeding $500 for a studio room – that’s daylight robbery,” lamented St Kilda cheer squad leader Joe Dooley to News Corp.

The South Australian government is closely monitoring this situation.

“This is something we are keeping an eye on,” Premier Peter Malinauskas remarked on ABC radio last Thursday.

“I haven’t focused on Gather Round yet – you can understand that I’ve had other pressing matters – but I assure you there will be announcements regarding this in due course.”

AFL chief Andrew Dillon also noted that he maintains regular discussions with South Australian government representatives and Adelaide stakeholders.

“We’ll be engaging in conversations with the SA government in the forthcoming weeks,” Dillon mentioned.

“The three Gather Round events we’ve held thus far have been overwhelming successes, with strong ticket sales and significant economic contributions to South Australia as a result.”

Addressing the broader concerns surrounding rising fuel prices, Dillon confirmed that the AFL has started exploring contingency solutions should clubs face difficulties in travelling for games.

“This is a consideration for all businesses right now, and there is a level of uncertainty,” he stated. “What we’re doing is exploring our options. We’re not worried for the immediate future, but it’s prudent to be prepared.”