by Big Phil » Wed Aug 28, 2013 1:27 pm
Media Release from the Bays...
Council backs Glenelg Football Club finance plan
The Glenelg Football Club has welcomed the Holdfast Bay Council’s approval of a financing plan which will ensure the Club has a viable, long-term future.
Councillors last night agreed to a proposal for the Glenelg Football Club to redraw its $2.5 million loan facility with the City of Holdfast Bay.
Glenelg Football Club President Nick Chigwidden says the Council’s support for the plan will help to deliver long-term security and stability for the Club.
“Like many South Australian businesses, the Glenelg Football Club has suffered as a result of the difficult economic climate,” he says.
“Combined with the legal costs associated with the Glenelg Oval lights project, poor weather conditions during the 2013 SANFL season, and our disappointing on-field performance this year, the Club’s cash flow has come under significant pressure while gaming revenues have also fallen. However, it’s important to note that player payments have not increased during this period.
“With the Council’s support for our proposal to redraw the loan facility, the Glenelg Football Club will now be in a position to implement a stronger business and management model.
“This is especially critical as the SANFL heads towards a new era.
“We will also be able to undertake important upgrades to our player facilities (to meet OHS&W requirements), and the Club’s function and bistro facilities.
“The result will be a strong and viable Glenelg Football Club that will continue to be a valuable asset for the local community and the City of Holdfast Bay,” he says.
Mr Chigwidden says the Glenelg Football Club Board has also identified significant savings through restructuring the Club’s operational management and football departments, to ensure better use of existing resources.
“We’ll also be doing more to engage with the local community – especially schools and sporting clubs – to make better use of our facilities. We would also like to thank our suppliers and loyal sponsors, members and supporters for their continued support through what has been a challenging year.”
The current balance of the loan facility is $1.7 million, due to significant repayments made by the Glenelg Football Club. The Council has approved the Club drawing an initial $300,000, with the ability to draw up to $500,000.