The announcement this week of federal government funding for the redevelopment of Hobart’s Bellerive Oval, where North Melbourne plans to play two games from this year, created further questions about the spread of AFL facilities and just where Ballarat’s proposition to redevelop the Eureka Stadium precinct sits.

Mr Arocca’s comments published in The Courier today are the most definitive about his club’s commitment.

The relationship that Ballarat has built with the Kangaroos continues to evolve, with the upcoming community camp another opportunity for the club to engage with AFL fans in Victoria’s west.

The establishment of AFL-standard facilities as part of a much broader redevelopment of the Eureka Stadium precinct that provides outlets for business, educational and community needs, as well as sport, is supported by the people of Ballarat. We know this first-hand through the feedback to The Courier’s Think Big Ballarat campaign, launched last year – a strong indicator that local business and residents will support a precinct that produces benefits for all.

Having AFL football in the precinct will act as a centrepiece but will not be the only focal point. The many ideas to attract and build space for entertainment, conferences and other recreational pursuits remains part of the big picture.

Importantly, the federal government has again shown its willingness to support big-picture developments, which include providing better facilities for AFL games – such as in Hobart and Geelong.

The ability to attract funding from AFL and the state government, or other sources, is important and depends on being able to produce and sell a community precinct.

The commitment of the Kangaroos to the project and to Ballarat can be a catalyst for this message and a driver for genuine excitement about Ballarat for the future.

The ability to build a vision and a future in Ballarat remains vital to our city’s success. Astutely handled, this project has the ability to take residents on that journey and enhance the city’s reputation.

The statements from Mr Arocca this week should provide added confidence that goals can, and will, be kicked.