FOOTY IS BACK, YOU GUYS.
The second bestl day of the year (behind Grand Final Day) is finally upon us, delivering us all from the abyss of summer and back into the warm, embracing arms of another season of professional Australian rules football. It’s a glorious time for all.
However with that comes the onset of an extremely busy time for logistical and security efforts – particularly in footy-mad Melbourne. And ahead of tonight’s traditional season-opening clash between Richmond and Carlton at the MCG, extra forces are being deployed in the wake of recent world events.
Following on from the horrific terror attacks in Brussels, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has confirmed that the police presence at the ground will be doubled tonight, in a move to assuage any fears the Victorian public might be holding.
Police will also be out in force across the Easter long weekend, with boosted numbers patrolling all other A-League and AFL games, as well as in and around the CBD area.
Andrews was quick to assert that there is absolutely no semblance of a threat to Victoria or Melbourne, and that the move is standard practice following any global terror act.
“There is no intelligence to suggest there is any link between the events in Europe and anybody here.”
“These are well-practiced, well-established protocols. The resources are there and the determination is there to keep Victoria safe and never let these evil murderers win out.”
The attacks in Paris and the Bataclan Theatre also prompted tighter security at sporting events across the summer, which included the introduction of the “ring of steel” security cyclone fencing around the MCG for cricket games. The fence was widely criticised for causing massive lines and delays as huge crowds attempted to pass through and gain entry into the ground. The MCG and AFL recently announced that the fence would not return for the AFL season, however it’s unknown if that position has changed in light of recent events.
Still, ENJOY THE FOOTY SEASON, PALS!
It’s the most wonderful time of the year.
Source: The Age.
Photo: Michael Dodge/Getty.
