Darcy Byrne statement on Balmain Leagues Club going into voluntary administration

Friday, 26 October 2018

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne has expressed his deep sadness over news that Balmain Leagues Club has gone into voluntary administration.

“I was very sad to hear today that Balmain Leagues Club has gone into voluntary administration,” said Mayor Byrne.

“Balmain Tigers and the Balmain Leagues Club have been an essential part of the Inner West community and Australian sport throughout our history.

“My top priority now is ensuring the return of a Tigers Leagues Club to Rozelle and making sure the Club’s junior footballers still have a home in the Inner West.

“I will be approaching West Tigers’ shareholders to discuss the potential for a Tigers Club to be established in the proposed development of the former Leagues Club site, as is required for any development to proceed.

“As Mayor of Leichhardt and of the Inner West, I have fought hard to advocate for the club and its members.

“Council fought a long battle against a previous owner of the site in the NSW Land and Environment Court to ensure the Tigers would have a home in any redevelopment.

“That court ruling means that there is an absolute requirement for a Tigers club to be located in the new development, if it is to be approved. The entire premise of the rezoning of the site is based on the inclusion of the Tigers Leagues Club at the site.

“Previously, as Mayor of Leichhardt Council, I offered Council's assistance in setting up a foundation that would raise money and fund the Balmain Football Club regardless of the financial viability of the Leagues Club. This is an action that should be considered again now,” he said.

“Questions about the details of the commercial arrangements between the Balmain Leagues Club, the previous and current owners of the site and their business associates should be directed to those parties."

For more information, contact John Roper on 0435 963 787