Tasmania Don't miss out on the headlines from Tasmania. Followed categories will be added to My News. Macquarie Point stadium could “catapult” the Tasmanian economy “into the stratosphere” says AFL master coach Alastair Clarkson as the 23,000-seat roofed stadium in Hobart edges closer to reality.
With the planning application for the Macquarie Point stadium lodged by the Macquarie Point Development Corporation, a major milestone in the multi-purpose venue’s delivery by 2029, Clarkson feels a bespoke stadium is the right move. “It’s an unbelievable opportunity for the state of Tasmania,” Clarkson said. The four-time Hawthorn premiership coach, former member of the Tasmanian AFL Taskforce and now coach of Tasmanian ‘tenant’ North Melbourne was in Hobart on Friday to address the 43rd annual Bill Sorell Sports Lunch at Wrest Point, attended by almost 600 footy fans.
North Melbourne Head Coach, Alastair Clarkson ahead of the Bill Sorell luncheon at Wrest Point Casino. Picture: Linda Higginson “I know a lot of people are thinking this is just a football stadium,” Clarkson said. “It’s also an opportunity for the Tasmanian economy to catapult itself into the stratosphere with major events and bringing people coming down to perform in the state.
“Tasmania has been a tourist state for a long time and if you can attract major events to this stadium it will help drive the economy.” As part of the Tasmanian AFL Taskforce, Clarkson was engaged to investigate.