The AFL Premiership Cup will visit the Bundaberg Region after successful lobbying by Mayor Jack Dempsey.
Mayor Dempsey wrote to AFL chief executive Gillon McLachlan yesterday after a proposed itinerary showed that Bundaberg would be bypassed.
“Bundaberg is one of the major regional centres in Queensland and proudly supports two senior clubs in the AFL Wide Bay competition. We also have strong and vibrant clubs playing junior and women’s AFL,” the Mayor wrote.
“Emma Zielke, who captained the Brisbane Lions women in their first two seasons, was born at Bundaberg.
“I respectfully suggest it will benefit the code in the Bundaberg Region if the Premiership Cup can visit Gin Gin, Bundaberg and Childers on its way from Gladstone to Toowoomba.”
Council offered to assist the AFL with organising the visit and providing venues.
Mr McLachlan replied the AFL was extremely grateful to the people and state of Queensland, without whom the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership Season would not have been completed.
“I am thrilled to know that a visit showcasing the Cup is such a strong priority for Bundaberg and your council and your letter was duly forwarded to those in government and our offices who were making arrangements for visits in the coming week,” he said.
“Our Cup is something that we do want fans to be able to see close-up, where they wish to do so, and I am glad to report that venue arrangements will be altered so that Bundaberg will now be a stop on its tour.
“With just five finals to go over the next three weeks, we are building a great finish to this most amazing of all seasons, and I’m sure the Brisbane Lions will be front of mind for many Queenslanders as they try to claim a first flag since 2003.
“Thank you for your strong interest and support to us and hopefully a visit by the Cup is a small measure of thank you from us.”
Mayor Dempsey said he was delighted the AFL had responded quickly and favourably.
“Bundaberg Region people love sports and the opportunity to see the Holy Grail of AFL is something that many people will appreciate,” he said.
“I'm grateful to Mr McLachlan for agreeing to our request.”
Details of the AFL Premiership Cup visit will be advised in the next few days.
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