Following discussions with the Queensland Government, the Bureau of Meteorology, and Stadiums Queensland, the AFL has postponed Geelong’s clash with the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba on Thursday night.
The Cats meeting with the reigning premier is one of two Opening Round match-ups impacted by the threat of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, with the Gold Coast-Essendon meeting scheduled for Carrara on Saturday also put on hold.
The AFL says it’s working with Geelong and Brisbane on rescheduling, with Round 3 – when both clubs have the bye – likely.
“As I said yesterday, the priority is that we do everything we can to ensure the health and safety of everyone in and around any potential cyclone zone or community impacted by the forecast heavy rains and storm surges.” AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said.
“It is a very uncertain situation that is unfolding, and our thoughts are with everyone in southeast Queensland and northern NSW that may be impacted.
“Ultimately, we hope this weather event doesn’t eventuate, but we know everyone needs to prepare accordingly and we don’t want our games to be a distraction to those preparations.
“We want to make the decision now to give clubs and fans certainty in an uncertain environment and allow anyone from Queensland who would normally be involved in this game through coaching, playing, attending or working at the venue time to be home with their families and available in the community if required.
“I want to thank our clubs for their support and patience, our broadcasters for being aligned with our view that the community and public safety must always come first, the venues and venue partners and our fans for their understanding.”
The AFL season will commence with the SCG clash between Sydney and Hawthorn on Friday, with the GWS Giants and Collingwood in action at the Sydney Showgrounds on Sunday.
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