THE prospect of multiple AFL games in Cairns every season is real, according to the man in charge of growing the sport in Australia and around the world.
Saturday will mark the second of three clashes in Cairns between AFL sides Gold Coast Suns and Richmond Tigers.
But the AFL’s expansion boss said that was just the beginning of the city’s association with the sport’s top competition.
Andrew Dillon, general manager of the AFL’s national and international development, arrived in Cairns yesterday ahead of Saturday’s Round 16 clash and will spend the next two days in Cape York promoting the game with injured Suns’ pair Daniel Gorringe and Nathan Bock.
He said Cairns would continue to be part of the game’s expansion plans after 2013.
"It’s really important for the AFL, being Australia’s game, that we continue to play games up here," he said.
"I wouldn’t rule out (more than one game a season), that’s for sure. It’s only upsides for the AFL up here, with the investment we’ve got. "
And the introduction of a north Queensland NEAFL side "sooner rather than later" was also in Mr Dillon’s plans.
"An NEAFL side is certainly achievable. We want that to happen soon, we haven’t set a date but we’re looking at 2013 or 2014," he said.
About 11,000 people converged on Cazalys Stadium last year to watch the first AFL premiership match in Cairns and more are expected for the rematch on Saturday.
AFL Cairns boss Gary Young welcomed Mr Dillon’s backing, saying that it was about consolidating what they had first.
"We need to keep the crowds, benefit the AFL and benefit the city, then build," he said.
"That’s why this year’s game is very important, we need to show we’re a constant force.
"The establishment of an NEAFL team is another dimension of that and eventually our ultimate goal is to have a NQ-based AFL team. Let’s tick it all off in little bites."
Mr Young said it was important people bought their tickets in advance to avoid game-day queues at the ground.
Last Modified on 25/09/2012 10:24