Hawthorn have extended their lucrative deal to play home games in Launceston, signing a two-year extension with the Tasmanian government as the prospect of a standalone team in the state hangs in the balance.
Four Hawks home matches per season will be staged at UTAS Stadium at least until the end of 2025. The latest extension continues a relationship which began in 2001.
Hawks chief executive Justin Reeves said the deal would continue to benefit the club, for the Hawks have received millions of dollars in government funds via sponsorship to take matches to the island.
The Hawks will continue to play home games in Launceston at least until the end of 2025.Credit:Getty Images
“To continue this partnership with the Tasmanian government until at least the end of 2025 is fantastic for our loyal 10,000 strong Tasmanian members and fans and the thousands of Hawthorn members and fans that travel from around the country to Launceston for our matches” Reeves said.
“Having this commitment provides certainty for the club, while the state continues to provide the highest AFL content and continue its pursuit of its own AFL team, which we have long said we are in support of.”
Hawks president Andy Gowers said the club would continue to work with the Tasmanian community.
“As a club, we are incredibly proud to be extending this partnership and continue to play in front of our passionate Tasmanian members and fans,” Gowers said.
“Hawthorn’s partnership with Tasmania remains among the longest standing in the AFL, and we can’t wait to return to Launceston. We highly value our long-standing relationship with the Tasmanian Government and community and continue to ensure Hawthorn matches in Tasmania generate significant direct and indirect economic impacts to the state, particularly in the transport, tourism and hospitality sectors.”
The Hawks have been able to stage showcase matches in Launceston recently, including Anzac Day, Sir Doug Nicholls round and the state’s emergency services match.
The debate over funding for a new multipurpose, roofed stadium at Macquarie Point in Hobart remains the key issue for the AFL and the 18 current clubs before they agree for a 19th licence to be awarded to Tasmania.
The AFL has committed $15 million to the stadium, while the state government has committed $375 million to the stadium build as well as $205 million over the next 12 years to secure a standalone team. However, Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff hopes the federal government will confirm before the May budget whether it will provide an additional $240 million of funding, which would open the way for the AFL to grant a licence.
The department of infrastructure is analysing Tasmania’s case for the new stadium, having received the proposal just before Christmas. If given the go-ahead, the new stadium will be built by 2029.
Keep up to date with the best AFL coverage in the country. Sign up for the Real Footy newsletter.
