As we continue to navigate our way through restrictions in Melbourne and are encouraged by the lowering rate of daily infections, we sadly have to say goodbye to the 2020 AFL Grand Final.
Today, the AFL announced The Gabba in Brisbane will host the 2020 AFL Grand Final in late October.You will remember in the last few years it was announced that the AFL Grand Final will be hosted at the MCG until at least 2057 in a three-way agreement with the AFL and the Victorian Government. In light of the current circumstances and as a gesture of goodwill towards the longstanding partnership, the current agreement has been extended for an additional year until at least 2058 and we have also been guaranteed two extra AFL Premiership Season matches at the ‘G per year in 2022 and 2023.
While it is devastating for all of us to see the 2020 Grand Final move away from the ‘G, I do want to acknowledge the strong role Queensland have played in supporting the AFL competition during this season and wish them all the very best as they work with the AFL to plan this year’s event. I would also like to congratulate the AFL and all the clubs on the amazing work they have done this year to date in keeping the 2020 AFL Premiership Season going in incredibly difficult circumstances.
We have received some enquiries from members who are based interstate about their access to tickets for the 2020 AFL Grand Final at The Gabba. We are currently exploring options with the AFL and will be in touch with members in due course.
As I set out in my message to you in May, the Club was able to offer all members a 30 per cent discount on their 2020/21 subscription fees, implement a hardship provision for those experiencing significant hardship and introduce MCCFlexipay, a new part payment plan for members. This was in recognition for the reduced amount of expected MCG content as well as to support our members through a difficult year that had seen the devastation of summer bushfires and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At that time, it was clear that member attendance at the 2020 AFL Premiership Season matches was going to be compromised, but we couldn’t at that stage forecast exactly how this whole year would play out. Now that we know that the 2020 AFL Finals Series and the AFL Grand Final have been affected, your Committee will look to review the situation in May next year and make considerations for the 2021/22 subscription year.
In saying that, it is our and Cricket Australia’s intention for the Boxing Day Test to be played at the MCG should restrictions continue to ease. This was supported by the Victorian Premier in comments made on the weekend noting the traditional test match is due to be played in four months’ time.
When crowds return to the MCG – a time all of us will treasure - we will do so in a new normal. Management is currently putting the final touches on a COVIDSafe plan that will be endorsed by the Victorian Government. We will update members on the specifics of the plan in the coming months.
I also want to remind members to listen to our new podcast, designed for members to reminisce about the great moments that have happened at the MCG and hosted by Fox Footy and SEN broadcaster Anthony Hudson. Our latest episode was released last Thursday, August 27 – the birthday of Sir Donald Bradman – on what would have been the day of our annual Bradman Luncheon. The episode recalls luncheons of the past and features conversations with Gerard Whateley and Greta Bradman. Well worth a listen!
Keep well and safe.
Kind regards,
Michael Happell
MCC President