Foordy
International Captain
Contributor
- Mar 4, 2008
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- 12 of the 16 clubs have commissioned an independent report on the impact of expansion
- the NRL also commissioned a report in 2019. the NRL have not released the findings of this report, which has clubs concerned.
- Vlandys told the Australian the the club's understanding of the report was ‘completely inaccurate’. (not surprising if the NRL are hiding the report)
“We want to see some facts,” Kelly said.
“We won’t have a firm position until we know the facts. That’s basically it.
“Why aren’t they releasing the 2019 report? Does it not tell the story they want told?
“It’s not a good look. It looks like the decision has been made before all the facts are in. That’s certainly the way it looks.
“There has been no consideration given to compiling a comprehensive report which clearly states it’s the way forward.
“I’m disappointed for (the bid teams) because I know how much work goes into doing it properly. If they don’t go ahead with expansion, a lot of people have put a lot of time and money into something that’s been wasted.
“It seems they (NRL) have got a timetable and that’s the determinant.”
“We want to see the evidence that there will be enough money,” he said.
“Has anyone asked the question of where the extra dollars are coming in to support a new club? There is the $13 million (yearly club) grant and then the extra costs to run the competition.
“Kate Jones (commissioner) is doing a piece on participation and that should be part of the consideration. What’s the cost to the women’s game and participation and grassroots?
“Let’s have some facts put on the table so we can understand where we’re going.”
Vlandys says:
“It’s not fair at all what he is saying,” V’landys said.
“I haven’t even spoken to Darryl Kelly yet, you would think they would hear us out before they want to criticise us but that’s his prerogative.
“I’ve always said the numbers have to stack up for us to consider adding another team in Queensland.
“We will not have the Titans, Cowboys and Broncos cannibalised, I’ve made that very clear.”
QRL chairman Bruce Hatcher says
“I have previously done my own studies of the impact of expansion on the Gold Coast,” Hatcher said.
“I’m not ruling out expansion by any means, but I have a particular view that the Titans need support and they need a better hold on the Gold Coast region than they currently have because historically it’s been difficult for rugby league to succeed in that area.
“I really admire the current investors Darryl Kelly and Rebecca Frizelle for putting their money where their mouth is and giving it a great shot.”