The AFL today reaffirmed its support for the Chairman and Board of the Brisbane Lions Football Club and said it was continuing to work with the Lions at all levels to strengthen the club’s position both on and off the field.

Incoming AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan said the AFL had full confidence in the Brisbane Lions FC Board and its ongoing efforts to restore the health of the club. He also emphasised that the AFL continued to back the Board’s strategic direction and its aspiration to move to a new Training and Administration facility at Springfield.

“The AFL is fully supportive of the decision-making of the Brisbane Lions’ Chairman and Board,” Mr McLachlan said.

“This support extends to any Board decision about rolling over the Heads of Agreement in regards to a training and administration facility at Springfield for a further period while discussions continue.

“I have been working closely with Bob Sharpless and the Board in support of their plans for the longer term direction of the Brisbane Lions and this will be ongoing.”

Mr. McLachlan noted the decision today of Club CEO Malcolm Holmes to move on.

“Malcolm has played an important role at the club over the past three years as it has managed a number of changes and he deserves recognition and thanks for his efforts, particularly in overseeing cultural change, improved stakeholder engagement, membership and sponsorship growth,” Mr McLachlan said.

“Malcolm has determined the time is right for a change in administrative leadership at the club and we support that decision.

“The Lions have been faced with a number of challenges in recent times and Malcolm can be proud of his efforts to manage the club through this period. The AFL wishes him all the best for the future.”