The Gold Coast was once again in the spotlight when it recently hosted the 2012 NAB AFL Draft, one of the league’s largest media events, second only to the AFL Grand Final.
The AFL Draft brings together players, coaches and staff from all 18 clubs, during a week-long program of events staged throughout the City.
One key corporate event on the agenda, the AFL CEO’s Meeting, took place on Wednesday 21 November, at Metricon Stadium, the AFL headquarters of the Gold Coast SUNS.
The twenty-six attendees included CEOs of all 18 AFL Clubs, plus the AFL Executive team who meet quarterly to discuss and review league activity, including forward planning initiatives designed to ensure the future health and development of the game.
Paul Donovan, Chief Operating Officer Gold Coast Airport, Gold Coast Tourism Chairman and Director Events Queensland and Tourism Queensland was the special guest speaker during the 2012 function, where he reiterated the importance of major events such as the Draft to the region, as well as the State Government’s objectives aligned under it’s ongoing partnership with the AFL.
The 2012 hosting of the AFL CEOs Meeting marks year one of a broader based, three -year agreement between the AFL and Events Queensland for the Gold Coast to host the Draft through until 2014.
AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou said the League was extremely pleased to be returning to the Gold Coast this year, following a very successful NAB AFL Draft and Industry Conference in 2010.
“We thank the Queensland Government and the team at Events Queensland for the opportunity to bring the Draft back to the Gold Coast this year, and again in 2013 and 2014.
“The facilities for major events and business are fantastic and our Clubs and broadcast partners love the wonderful backdrop the region provides.
“It’s also a wonderful opportunity for the local AFL community to come together at Metricon Stadium and learn from the many talented individuals within our AFL Clubs,” he said.
The 2010 Draft generated $9 million worth of publicity nationally for the event and for the region. Over 660 people travelled to the Gold Coast, staying over 1400 room nights with an estimated economic impact of $2.33million.
According to Gold Coast Tourism CEO Martin Winter, the confirmed return of the event for a further two years is a testimony to the destination’s ability to deliver as a desirable, cost effective and diverse destination to stage, watch or participate in major events.
“Events on the Gold Coast allow organisers to showcase our world-class sporting and entertainment facilities and venues, amazing array of accommodation options, plus highlight the overriding depth of the Gold Coast experience, all enjoyed within idyllic coastal and hinterland surrounds. Images of our beautiful City are beamed throughout Australia and the rest of the World, plus through social media everyone in attendance becomes an unofficial ambassador, by showcasing the fun and enjoyment being had while here on the Gold Coast.”
