Labor leader Dean Winter’s move to lodge a no-confidence motion against Premier Jeremy Rockliff has sparked backlash from supporters of Tasmania’s proposed stadium and AFL team.
Winter and shadow treasurer Josh Willie have been removed from the “YES AFL TEAM – YES STADIUM” Facebook group, which boasts more than 23,000 members.
“Due to Dean Winters antics today, we have decided to remove him and Josh Willie from our group,” group founder and admin Mark Brown announced.
The expulsion comes despite both MPs having posted regularly in the group and receiving support from members, following Labor’s reversal to a pro-stadium position after the election.
The decision drew mixed reactions from group members, with some openly disagreeing with the move.
“That’s really stupid,” wrote one commenter, while another said “I do not agree with this step. Dean has continued to reiterate his support for both team and stadium.”
The political turmoil has raised serious concerns about the future of the Tasmania Devils AFL club, which hinges on a contract between the AFL and the Tasmanian Government that includes plans for a 23,000-seat roofed stadium at Macquarie Point.
In an emotional press conference earlier today, the team’s Kath McCann broke down in tears while addressing the uncertain future of the club.
McCann described the situation as “an unprecedented level of uncertainty” for the organisation.
