THE state government's easing of restrictions on crowds at major Sydney stadiums is expected to have a flow-on affect to Tamworth's Scully Park.
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However, any increases to the stadium's capacity will not occur before the New England Rugby Union grand final on September 26.
Currently capped at 25 per cent capacity, Wests Entertainment Group chief executive officer Rod Laing said tickets for the decider had already been snapped up.
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"From what I understand, the state government's approach will be a one-in-all-in approach and they are talking about increasing the capacity at all stadiums regardless of it's in a metropolitan area or regional area," Mr Laing told the Leader.
"I know they will be starting to increase capacities at Stadium Australia and Bankwest Stadium, which I see as being a bit of a trial for the rest of the state's stadiums.
"If that works, they will roll it out to the rest of the stadiums and while it is pleasing, it is unfortunately too little too late for the New England grand final."
The zone opted to move the grand final from its traditional home in Armidale to Scully Park, to accommodate more spectators.
Since tickets went on sale and the Walcha Rams, Harbour Knights, Tamworth Magpies and Pirates claimed spots in the four respective grand finals, almost all available tickets were purchased by the participating clubs.
"Given the players are considered in the capacity, I'm pretty sure all the remaining tickets are gone unfortunately," Mr Laing said.
"We would have loved to be able to have more come along, but we are limited by the restrictions.
"However, I think it will be a fantastic day and how quickly the tickets have gone just goes to show how hungry our community is for live sport."
Announced by NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian on Thursday, the changes will allow stadiums to increase capacity from 25 per cent to 50 per cent, up to 40,000 people.
"Our number one priority is the health and safety of the people of NSW, however it is no secret we're also focused on firing up the economy," Ms Berejiklian said.
"Safely allowing more fans at in-demand major sporting events will bring enjoyment, employment and help stimulate the NSW economy."
Mr Laing said the changing of the one person per four square metre rule was key to helping regional stadiums.
"If they are talking about 50 per cent capacity and still one person per four square metres that won't suit Scully Park," he said.
"It is quite a complicated process working out the capacity, especially when you look at the fact they've done it for indoor venues three times since the pandemic began.
"I certainly hope they are talking about 50 per cent capacity and one person per two square metres because that would certainly make a difference."
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
