Mount Gambier City Council will help support the financial cost of bringing an A-league soccer event to the region in December.
Initially held in confidence at its August monthly meeting, the council has resolved to provide $6700 in-kind support along with $5000 cash.
At the time of the matter being discussed at the meeting, council was satisfied the matter be held in confidence “pending State Government announcement of financial support”.
The minutes of the confidential agenda item have since been released.
Councillor Frank Morello moved the motion the cash and in-kind support be allocated to Gambier Centrals Soccer Club towards the staging of the A-League women’s fixture game and associated event.
Seconded by Cr Mark Lovett, other elected members present unanimously voted to financially support the event.
City Mayor Lynette Martin said it was important for the council to support the event.
“Mount Gambier City Council unanimously voted to support this event and it is fabulous for our region to be recognised in this way,” she said.
“It is a fabulous opportunity for our region to have a match of this calibre to be staged here.
“It is a wonderful opportunity to support women’s soccer.
“This is particularly on the back of the Matildas recent success and national interest in the sport.”
It is expected the match would be between Adelaide United and Western United and will be held in December.
The game follows the hype generated in the past month from the FIFA World Cup where the Australian women’s team Matildas gained an incredible following.
The proposal also includes school visits from Adelaide United and Western United team players for up to 600 children, an open training session, free soccer clinics for up to 100 students and a local dinner for guests and supporters with the players.
The game would also be broadcast live from Centrals’ home ground on Bishop Road.
Should the event go ahead, Mayor Martin highlighted the economic benefits for the Limestone Coast by attracting visitors from both Victoria and South Australia.
“I believe the match will also be televised widely and the benefit that could bring to our region should never be underestimated,” she said.
“I also think our perfect position halfway between Melbourne and Adelaide was an incentive as well as soccer being a very popular sport in the region.”
Mayor Martin said soccer had become even more popular, not only in playing but also as a spectator sport.
“Given we have fantastic sporting facilities here in Mount Gambier I am pleased we have been recognised in this way,” she said.
