1. Money for the upgrade of Olympic Park.
· What exactly is planned on being upgraded and when will it occur?
Ø removal & replacement of the Athletics Tracks,
Ø upgrade to supporting athletics infrastructure and
Ø upgrade of the infield perimeter drain
Ø upgrade works on the track is scheduled to take place in the Storm's
off season The infield (currently used as a supplementary
training venue) will still be available for the Storm to train
on, if required, whilst works are being undertaken on track
replacement.
If the Storm qualifies for a home final, the MOP Trust has
advised Storm that they will assist them in trying to relocate
the game.
· How much money has been set aside to pay for the upgrade?
Ø $2.7m Bracks Government capital contribution
2. If the Storm will be affected by the Commonwealth Games ?. and the
AFL is being compensated for the effects of holding the Games then
· how much compensation is proposed for the Storm?
· If no compensation is proposed for the Storm can you please obtain
detailed reasons why.
Ø MOP Trust have had discussions with Storm regarding this but there is
no information available to us regarding progress in these discussions.
In relation to your other comments, I have been advised that there was
significant development of Olympic Park aimed at catering for Storm's
requirements and costing $4.2m prior to Storm being established. The
government has provided funding for the development of rugby league through
the VRL and, through MOPT, facilitated the return of the Storm to Olympic
Park in 2002. Furthermore, I am informed that the Minister, his staff and
other Govt Minister's have attended many meetings with representatives of
Melbourne Storm relating to the future of the Club and the development of
the Sport in Victoria.