A new partnership between AFL Queensland and Byron Shire Council will see the Byron Regional Sport and Cultural Complex become a home to the governing body of Australian Rules football in Queensland.
The deal signed last week includes a five-year lease and $80,000 from AFL Queensland for goals and nets for the fields.
Mayor Simon Richardson welcomed AFL Queensland CEO Michael Conlan and his team to the BRSCC after they held a two-day conference for AFL Queensland staff.
‘Our region is known for its outdoor sporting lifestyle and I have no doubt that it will become a strong development ground for a new generation of footballers,’ Cr Richardson said.
‘The local young AFL supporters I’ve spoken to are pumped. To have a major sporting code based in our region is fantastic. It’s good for the sport and mentoring of our youth, and hopefully will bring some great spectator games for locals and visitors.’
Mr Conlan said the move would provide great benefits for the local AFL and sports communities. ‘Our investment at BRSCC will provide a top-quality training and football education facility that will greatly enhance our talent and participation programs for residents of both Byron Shire and the northern rivers. Council has been very supportive in recent months, and we look forward to a long and rewarding partnership at BRSCC.’