AFL stands by clubs in flood affected North Coast

The grandstand at Oakes Oval, the home of the Lismore Swans, was barely recognisable during the 2022 floods which devastated the town and surrounding region.

CLUBS in the AFL North Coast have received immediate financial assistance from the AFL in the wake of the devastating floods and further rain events that have hit the region.

The AFL has granted a total of $32,500 to local clubs with the lion’s share going to the Lismore Swans, Casino Lions and Bellingen Bulldogs whose communities and home grounds were hit hardest.

Steve Mahar, the state co-ordinator for the AFL NSW/ACT’s flood response, said making funding available so quickly after the recent terrible events is a sign of the AFL’s ongoing commitment to clubs and players.

“Supporting the clubs at this time is paramount to ensure those facing difficult challenges in the wake of this tragedy can meet them. Particularly on the back of the past two years that have been affected by COVID and similar events also happening last year,” Mahar said.

“People in those areas are facing much bigger challenges at the moment than just footy. We want to make sure that when those people are ready to return to the game, the clubs will be there to welcome them back into the fold.”

This financial assistance is the first step to assist clubs in overcoming the obstacles they face. 

More support will be provided in the future to help with the next phase of the recovery.

“While the impact of the floods for some clubs hasn’t been as severe, all AFL North Coast clubs have been included in the initial response,” Mahar added.

“Clubs have been forced to pay for alternative training venues as their home grounds have been constantly closed due to the wet conditions.

“There are players who haven’t been to training yet and as a result haven’t registered. Clubs have been unable to use the cash flow those registrations normally provide.

“Further cash flow difficulties have also stemmed from many businesses that have been long term sponsors of clubs not being able to continue their valued support in the short term while they themselves try to recover.”