Port Adelaide, Crows, SANFL ‘concerned’ about State Government pulling support for Footy Express

Adelaide’s two biggest sporting clubs and the SANFL have appealed to the AFL to keep free transport to the Adelaide Oval running amid plans to pull its funding.

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Adelaide’s two AFL clubs and the SANFL have major concerns about the State Government pulling funds for the Footy Express, a parliamentary committee heard today.

At an inquiry into the Adelaide Oval Hotel, AFL head of club performance and strategy David Grossman said Port Adelaide, the Crows and the league had raised concerns with the sport’s peak body about how the increased costs would affect their hip pocket.

In September last year, The Advertiser reported the current three-year agreement between the government, Motor Accident Commission (MAC), Adelaide Oval and the two Adelaide clubs to operate the free service had expired.

From next year, the government will seek to recover the full cost of the service.

“We have been approached by the clubs and the SANFL with concerns about the State Government potentially increasing transport fees,” Mr Grossman said.

“The conversations we have had with them are around what that might entail for their business models.

“It was of significant concern to them to raise it with us.”

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At present, footy fans going to and from a match at the oval can leave their car at home, then show their AFL game ticket for free travel on MAC Footy Express services as well as all regular Adelaide Metro buses, trains and trams.

Adelaide Crows chief executive Andrew Fagan said the current cost to the club to provide free transport was “significant”.

“Given a potential increase in costs has been flagged by the Government, the AFL has remained engaged given the adverse impact any change would have on the Club’s operations and our supporter base,” Mr Fagan said.

“Together with PAFC and the Adelaide Oval Stadium Management Authority, we have been working with government representatives to review the model and those discussions are ongoing.”

Transport Minister Stephan Knoll said the government was still in negotiation with the Stadium Management Authority about the Footy Express’ operation.

“The State Government is still in negotiation with the SMA about implementing the same full cost recovery model that exists for all other events with over 5000 people — from Adele concerts, to A-League matches and cricket matches at the Oval,” he said.

“It is then ultimately for the SMA to negotiate with its members.”

The parliamentary select committee was established late last year to inquire into the Stadium Management Authority’s (SMA) plan to build a 128-room hotel at Adelaide Oval.

Plans showed a five-level building extending from the eastern stand’s northeastern and southeastern exterior sides.

The Stadium Management Authority said tenders for the Adelaide Oval Hotel closed today.

The Adelaide Crows and Port Adelaide have been contacted for comment.