The Gunnedah and District Australian Football Club is expecting massive crowds when it hosts the AFL North West grand final next week.
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Wolseley Park will become a hub of activity when four games, featuring three Gunnedah Bulldogs teams, are played out across the course of the day on September 26.
The club is working hard behind the scenes to make sure COVID-19 doesn't overshadow the event, by complying with all NSW Health requirements.
This includes a COVID-safe plan, 400m of fencing to create 8000 square-metres of space for spectators, and permission to lift the alcohol-free zone at the park.
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The club originally didn't need fencing because they expected numbers to fall under the COVID community sport activities cap of 500, but in the last 10 days, it has become clear that the grand final will draw big crowds.
"The weather forecast is so good and everyone's going to turn out in massive numbers," club president Hamish Russell said.
Throw in the appeal of three local teams and at least one Tamworth opponent, and "we're going to end up most likely with more than 500 people".
"We are, unfortunately, going to have to install a fence to comply," Mr Russell said.
"We've taken on board everyone's COVID concerns and we'll make sure it's as enjoyable as possible."
It will be a massive day for Gunnedah and a massive day for Gunnedah Bulldogs.
- Hamish Russell
Up to 10 grandstands from the Gunnedah Showground will also be trucked in to provide seating, though footy lovers are also encouraged to bring their own chairs along.
The grandstands and fencing will be hired, transported and installed by Gunnedah Shire Council at half the usual cost after councillors voted on Wednesday to support the event.
"We're really happy with the support of the mayor and the council, especially Colleen Fuller, who really pushed the cause for our regard," Mr Russell said.
The grand final will be run as a free ticketed event and the club is trying to get local community groups and schools involved.
Local food and coffee vans will set up on site for the day and the club is negotiating a liquor licence to run a bar after councillors voted for the alcohol ban at Wolseley to be lifted between 11am-6pm.
"It's really exciting. It will be a massive day for Gunnedah and a massive day for Gunnedah Bulldogs," Mr Russell said.
The line-up
- Under-14 game between the Tamworth Roosters and the Gunnedah Bulldogs
- Under-17 game between the Inverell Saints and the Tamworth Roosters or Glen Innes Celts
- Gunnedah Bulldogs' senior men's team versus the Tamworth Swans or New England Nomads
- Gunnedah Bulldogs' senior women's team versus the Tamworth Swans