Western Australian football fans have long dreamed of hosting the AFL's Gather Round, and WA Football CEO Brad Wira has now weighed in on the possibility. In a recent interview, Wira explored whether Perth could be a viable host for the popular event, which has been held in South Australia since its inception. He also touched on the ongoing discussion about a potential third AFL club in Western Australia.
Could Perth Host Gather Round?
The Gather Round, introduced in 2023, has been a massive success in South Australia, drawing large crowds and boosting the local economy. Wira acknowledged the event's success but noted that Perth would need to meet certain criteria to host it. "We have the infrastructure and the passion for footy in WA," he said. "But we need to ensure we can provide a similar experience to what South Australia has achieved."
Wira highlighted the state's strong football culture, with the West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers both enjoying dedicated fan bases. He also pointed to Optus Stadium as a world-class venue capable of hosting multiple games over a weekend. However, he stressed that any bid would require collaboration between the WA Government, the AFL, and local clubs.
Challenges and Opportunities
One of the main challenges is the travel distance for interstate fans and teams. Unlike South Australia, which is centrally located, Perth is isolated, making it harder for fans to attend multiple games. Wira suggested that a potential Gather Round in Perth could be structured differently, perhaps with a longer event or more family-friendly activities to attract visitors.
"We have to think creatively," Wira said. "We could leverage our unique attractions, like the Swan River or Rottnest Island, to make it a destination event." He also noted that the AFL would need to consider the impact on player welfare, given the travel demands.
Third AFL Club in WA?
The idea of a third AFL club in Western Australia has been a topic of debate for years. Wira addressed the feasibility, stating that while there is strong grassroots support, the market may not be ready. "We have two strong clubs already, and a third would need to be financially viable and have a clear identity," he explained.
He pointed to the success of the WAFL and the state's growing population as positive factors. However, he cautioned against rushing into such a move without proper planning. "We need to ensure it doesn't dilute the talent pool or split the fan base too much," Wira added.
What the Future Holds
Wira remains optimistic about the future of footy in Western Australia. He confirmed that discussions with the AFL are ongoing regarding both the Gather Round and a potential third club. "We are always looking for ways to grow the game and engage more fans," he said. "Whether it's hosting a major event or expanding our club presence, WA football has a bright future."
For now, fans will have to wait and see if Perth gets the green light to host the Gather Round or if a third club becomes a reality. But one thing is certain: the passion for AFL in Western Australia shows no signs of fading.
