Media Statement

14 July 2008


Back to Belmore President Luke Brailey today met with newly appointed Bulldogs CEO Todd Greenberg for the first time, in what has been described as a warm and productive meeting held at the club's new headquarters at Olympic Park in Homebush.

The meeting marked the beginning of what Back to Belmore hopes will be a constructive and enduring dialogue about the future of Belmore Sports Ground.

Mr Brailey said he was encouraged by the tone and substance of the conversation.

"The meeting was very warm, cordial and friendly," Mr Brailey said.

"It was clear from the outset that Mr Greenberg brings a fresh perspective and a genuine willingness to listen and engage."

Mr Brailey was careful to emphasise that Back to Belmore is not interested in demanding that the Bulldogs return to Belmore immediately, but rather advocating for a realistic and staged approach to reviving the historic venue.

"I made it abundantly clear that we are not here to force or pressure the Bulldogs into playing NRL games at Belmore," he said.

"The reality is, the facility would need to be significantly upgraded before such a move could even be contemplated."

As part of the discussion, Mr Brailey encouraged Mr Greenberg to open dialogue with the Federal Government regarding funding opportunities to modernise the sporting precinct and restore it to professional standards.

"I urged Mr Greenberg to pursue discussions with the Federal Government around possible grant funding," Mr Brailey said.

"The time is right to begin those conversations, and the community stands ready to support any effort to restore Belmore as a top-class sporting facility."

Reflecting on the meeting, Mr Brailey said he was filled with optimism about the path ahead.

"With Todd Greenberg now at the helm of the Bulldogs, I am genuinely optimistic about Belmore's future," he said.

"We look forward to working together in the spirit of collaboration to help bring Belmore back to life, not just for the club, but for the community at large."