By ANEEKA SIMONIS
THOUSANDS are expected to cram into Beaconsfield during a one-day epic event which has sparked crowd and traffic management concerns.
Up to 8000 footy spectators are expected to huddle together at Holm Park Recreation Reserve in Beaconsfield on Saturday 27 February to watch Richmond take on Hawthorn in an AFL pre-season game.
The game clashes with the nearby at Akoonah Park Berwick Show that is also expected to host thousands of festival-goers.
Akoonah Park is often used as overflow parking for drivers unable to find a spot at the nearby Beaconsfield reserve.
Event co-ordinators admitted the February football match is anticipated to draw the biggest crowd that Holm Park Reserve has seen, further highlighting potential traffic concerns for spectators.
They are encouraging people, where possible, to avoid driving to the events.
However, Cardinia Shire Council’s team leader for recreation and facilities Heather Callahan moved to allay fears over potential chaos in the region, giving details about their traffic management plan, which will involve Victoria Police, VicRoads and a traffic management company.
“The plan will include parking for the event as well as pedestrian management and access to and from the site,” Ms Callahan said.
“We encourage anyone attending the AFL game to consider alternative forms of transport to the recreation reserve including public transport, walking, riding or organising to car pool.”
Ms Callahan said council was also investigating the possibility of shuttle buses to transport footy fans from the station to the game.
The Gazette contacted the Berwick Show Committee but did not receive a response.
Beaconsfield Football Club president Gary Valentine was excited to host the AFL pre-season game.
“We expect a record crowd,” he said.
Mr Valentine will be sitting down with council organisers in the next fortnight to discuss the plans.
Council, which has a partnership with Richmond Football Club, said it was aware that the Berwick Show was being held on the same day they set to host their first AFL NAB Challenge Game.
They expect to cap ticket numbers at 7000 – 8000 spectators.
