Plans revealed for $10m Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre in Alice Springs

AFL media commentator Eddie McGuire has thrown his support behind a multimillion proposal for a Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre in Alice Springs. SEE THE PLANS

AFL media commentator and former Collingwood president Eddie McGuire has thrown his support behind multimillion plans for a Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre in Alice Springs.

Michael Long Foundation chair Michael Solomon estimated the new Alice Springs proposal, which was seeking funding support from both levels of government, would be approximately a half to two thirds the size of the existing Darwin centre at TIO Stadium and could encompass other sports, not just Aussie rules.

The Darwin centre, which opened in March, 2015, provides opportunities for Indigenous youth in the Territory with accommodation facilities for up to 72 people, gym, pool, recovery centre, education spaces and corporate facilities.

Early design images for a second Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre in Alice Springs. Picture: Michael Long Foundation.

“The one in Darwin is doing exceptional things,” Solomon said.

“We believe Central Australia needs that level of support.”

He said Alice Springs kids were missing out on the benefits of the Darwin centre due to the “tyranny of distance”.

However, he said the centre would also bring AFLNT, the foundation and the Redtails Pinktails Right Tracks program – which provides health and employment opportunities – all on the one site.

He estimated it could cost up to $10m to build and employ around six people full time – with further funding needed for ongoing programs – while providing accommodation for up to 30 young people.

Michael Long Foundation chair Michael Solomon said the designs were similar to the Darwin centre but would be of a smaller scale. Picture: Michael Long Foundation.

It could be built at Traeger Park or in the Kilgariff Estate.

In a statement, Eddie McGuire said Long’s legacy in the Territory was “undeniable” and a new centre would make a big difference to youngsters in the Alice.

“A new football facility in Alice Springs will drive a better future for Indigenous Australians, a cause that Michael has dedicated his life to,” McGuire said.

“Football can and should be a driver of social change and reconciliation.

Michael Long with Danielle Ponter and (from left) Zoe, Leah and Ava Pollard.

“This new centre will harness the power of football to promote education, health, wellbeing and employment outcomes in Alice Springs.”

Long said the new centre would be a key part of the foundation’s future plans and extend its delivery of remote programs.

“We think that education is key ... using the power of footy to influence change and keep our kids in school,” Long said.

“We can take things to another level in Alice Springs.

“It’s really important for our community, our kids, boys and girls.”

Solomon hoped the proposal could attract funding during the Federal election.

“A lot of politicians talk loudly about supporting Central Australia and this is something they knew they can do which works,” he said.