This morning I got to work early, sat at my desk and read the articles that appeared in Melbourne's two major newspapers. I had a feeling this latest ray of hope might fall over - but was really hopeful it wouldn't; because it hadn't really appeared on my radar - certainly Harold Mitchell's name didn't...
But the biggest sentence in that article by Caro was this one...
Quote:
While speculation continued regarding a challenge to Smorgon's board, Mathieson denied yesterday that he was part of any challenge to the present board. "I'm out of there," he said. "What they do now is up to them. I have no intention of challenging anyone."
Everyone knows that Bruce Mathieson is moving north to the Gold Coast where his bling will shine a lot brighter than most (and will step down as a board member) - but the guy is completely dissenchanted with the place right now. Remember - this is one of Australia's richest men - and he has the opportunity to get in people's ear and talk up the future of the club - a guy who built his empire from scratch (and whether you agree with his business is irrelevent)...but it ain't gonna happen.
Mathieson organised Dan Murphy's as a sponsor. I think it's a great fit for the club...but it probably won't last beyond 2007. More worrying is Indesit (italian whitegoods ball sponsor) looked to want to steadily increase their sponsorship and profile in Australia - but have not been overly enthralled by the business practices at Carlton. Moreover - their competitors in Europe, US and Australia have made inroads on them in womens tennis and golf and European and Argentinian Football.
Sponsors will always be out there - however it's increasingly difficult to get them on board when there are more codes gaining in popularity in Melbourne. While Craig Richards (GM Commercial Operations) does a good job from where I'm sitting - wouldn't his job be so much more easier with Harold Mitchell on board! Richards' job is now more important that Maloufs. I can't think of too many other clubs where this is the case.
My gut still tells me (and has for a while) that this thing still has another 5-6 weeks to go before it comes to a head. The heirarchy have been told not to venture too far away from home these Christmas holidays. If it doesn't happen before Christmas - we have another bloody coup on our hands at the start of the football season...it'd be easier for all concerned to spill blood when the Ashes series is well underway, the draft is out of the way and the kids are on school holidays.
Login
Register
FAQ
