FREELING’S moment in the sun hosting the Barossa, Light & Gawler football and netball grand finals on Saturday was a great success, despite its new Freeling Agriculture, Recreation and Multi-use (FARM) centre not being used for any netball deciders on the day.
The Redlegs were initially going to host last season’s big dance, but swapped the rights with South Gawler to cater for the FARM centre’s opening earlier this year.
However, eight of the nine BL&GNA clubs decided against playing the senior one grand final inside the air-conditioned facility, with the game instead played outside in 27º C heat.
Despite the centre not being utilised for netball, Light Regional Council economic development general manager Kieren Chappell was pleased to see it still being used for other fun activities, which were well received by visitors.
“It was fantastic to see how the Freeling community was able to showcase the Barossa, Light & Gawler football and netball grand finals on the weekend,” he said.
“To successfully manage over 7000 spectators throughout the day is a massive effort and I’m sure the teams competing would agree that the new facilities are probably the best in the league.
“The management team certainly nailed the brief to make the day spectator and family-friendly with stalls, children’s activities and a wide range of food and drinks always close by.
“Getting around was a breeze, with very little congestion inside the ground – a sign that the site has been well-designed and laid out for large events.”
FARM centre manager Ross Sharer said the stalls and indoor activities “added to the day”.
“It definitely didn’t detract from the day,” he said.
“If every football ground had a stadium like this, I’m sure they’d do something similar.”
On the football side, Freeling president Craig Trestrail said the grand final was an overwhelming success.
“The feedback I’ve gathered has been very positive, that it was well run, and well organised,” he said.
“I’d like to thank the BL&GFA for letting us host the event, we take it seriously, and to other clubs coming through the gates and letting us show what we can do.
“Thank you to our volunteers who put a lot of hours getting that to run so smoothly.”