While the decision for more AFL games is up to the state government and the league, Launceston's all for hosting more matches.
This comes after Premier Peter Gutwein said on Thursday that he'd had discussions with the AFL in regards to the state possibly hosting two games in the coming fortnight.
One match would be between the Kangaroos and Lions on June 19 at Bellerive Oval, with the other between the Hawks and Essendon on June 20.
The possibility has been flagged due to Victorian government's limit on outdoor gatherings as the state eases out of its COVID outbreak which occurred at the end of May.
"Constructive and positive discussions are being held with the AFL, North Melbourne and Hawthorn in relation to the possibility of games being shifted from Melbourne to Tasmania," Gutwein said.
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City of Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said the council was open to the idea of hosting another game.
"The economic and social benefits of AFL football in Launceston have been clearly established," he said.
"Matches bring increased economic activity across a whole range of sectors, and UTAS Stadium is widely regarded as one of, if not the best playing surface in the competition.
"There has been and still is a unique rivalry between Hawthorn and Essendon over many years and the matches are always a close and hard-fought contest regardless of where both teams are on the ladder.
"Like many footy fans, I will be waiting with baited breath on an announcement next week."
Previous matches between the Hawks and fellow bottom-four teams the Kangaroos and Crows in Launceston drew COVID-capacity crowds of more than 9000 people earlier this year.
This would be the first time ever that Tasmania would host two AFL games on the same weekend, and would result in a three-week stay for the Kangaroos in Hobart.
It is unknown whether the state would fork out the bill for these games, and if they would have an impact on any future Tassie fixtures this season.
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Harry Murtough
Born and raised in Launceston. BA of journalism from Monash University. Sports reporter covering basketball, netball and cricket.
Born and raised in Launceston. BA of journalism from Monash University. Sports reporter covering basketball, netball and cricket.
