Trial run on easing COVID crowd restrictions at state’s iconic sporting venue

One of the state’s most iconic sporting venues will be able to take more punters this weekend as part of easing COVID-19 restrictions. DETAILS >>

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AN easing of COVID-19 restrictions will see larger crowds trialled at Tasmania’s spiritual home of football on Saturday, North Hobart Oval.

In a test run, North Hobart Football Club will be allowed to host up to 1250 fans for its home clash against North Launceston.

North Hobart president Craig Martin has been pushing for some time for a lifting of restrictions as bigger crowds means bigger revenue in a tough year.

“It has been a challenging year, at the moment I wouldn’t like to forecast where we are going to be,” Martin said.

“I would suspect we might make a slight loss, but by the same token we have a fantastic team … to make sure the club ends up in the best financial position as possible.

“To have increased crowds at the game, more noise, more atmosphere, it is sensational, it is what footy is all about

It will mean a few extra bob for the club as well, which is critical.”

North Hobart Football Club president Craig Martin. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

Tasmanian Sports Minister Jane Howlett said the outcome of the trial would determine whether other venues would be allowed larger crowds.

“The Tasmanian Government appreciates the impact coronavirus has had on club finances, particularly restrictions on crowd numbers,” Ms Howlett said.

“We have been working proactively with state sporting organisations to find practical solutions that allow sports to host greater numbers of spectators in a safe way.

“Like all football fans, I welcome the extra fans back to the footy and encourage everyone to be responsible and comply with the distancing rules to make this trial a success.

“North Hobart has a storeyed football history and I hope that the 1250 seats can be filled as a demonstration of how much we have missed going to the footy on a Saturday afternoon.”

North Hobart Oval underwent a $1.2 million redevelopment over the summer and has hosted AFLW matches previously.

It will also host this year’s TSL grand final should it be held in the south.

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