SAGE Swinton's front page story on Venues NSW's bid for concerts at McDonald Jones Stadium ('Stadium rock', Herald 2/7), may be music to the ears of some. These events it would seem would also include motorsports. The events, according to the article, would take place in the summer months which would clash with the Newcastle Jets' A-League season.
Now history would suggest that these events have a very detrimental effect on the ground's playing surface. While other codes can play on less than perfect turf the world game requires a high quality playing surface. Could I also point out that Australia will host the Women's World Cup next year, and while we are not destined to host any games no doubt Australian Football will have some high quality friendlies lined up in preparation for the tournament.
