Gather Round is about celebrating South Australia - Mount Barker remains an obvious venue
The Summit Sport and Recreation Park remains one of South Australia's premier regional sporting venues. Few locations can offer premier facilities, a unique backdrop and close proximity to Adelaide in the way Mount Barker can.
As one of Australia's fastest-growing communities, we have a passionate AFL supporter base that has embraced Gather Round from day one. Every match played in Mount Barker not only brings people into our region, it showcases the Adelaide Hills to a national television audience and encourages visitors to return long after the final siren.
If Gather Round is about celebrating South Australia, growing the game and sharing economic and social benefits with regional communities, then Mount Barker remains an obvious choice.
We also recognise that Gather Round continues to evolve. The AFL and State Government are always looking for ways to keep the event fresh and provide new experiences for visitors.
That's why we are open to exploring new ideas and partnerships that could further enhance the event in Mount Barker. There is potential to create something distinctive that complements the on-field action and delivers broader benefits for South Australia.
It's also important to address a misconception that occasionally surfaces regarding the Summit Sport and Recreation Park.
The facility was not built for Gather Round and it is certainly not sitting idle. Gather Round showcased what the venue is capable of, but the facility was always intended to serve the broader community and regional sport.
Today it hosts soccer, football, cricket, school sport, talent development programs, major events and community activities. It is a regional asset that continues to grow its role and contribution to the district.
Gather Round helped put the venue on the national stage, but its value extends well beyond a single event.
Mount Barker has proven it can deliver. We have the facilities, the community support and the experience. We would welcome the opportunity to work with the AFL and State Government to bring Gather Round back to Mount Barker in the years ahead.
