A maximum venue capacity of patrons at any one time at regional venues has been removed from AFL Victoria's return to training and games protocols, but whether crowds will be able to attend fixtured matches this weekend hinges on a further easing of restrictions by the Victorian Government.
The removal of the patron cap is part of the most up-to-date protocols from AFL Victoria, which now say “the number of patrons allowed is equal to the minimum number of people necessary to conduct the activity”, which means spectators are still limited to parents and guardians required to run the match or training session, as it stands.
If spectators are in attendance, they should not gather in groups of more than 10.
Players from Melbourne, who would normally compete in leagues across the region, can only train and it must be within 25km of their home or workplace, meaning they won't be available to play this weekend, as the restrictions currently state.
Other requirements include, the activity must be done outside and other than allowing access to toilet facilities, the use of the indoor facilities such as clubrooms, changerooms and sitting areas must remain closed.
The Goulburn Valley and Kyabram District leagues are hoping to restart their seasons on June 19.
In the revised GVL fixture, Kyabram will host Tatura, Rochester plays Shepparton, Shepparton United is up against Seymour, Mooroopna and Benalla will do battle, Euroa and Echuca face off as will Shepparton Swans and Mansfield, if games go ahead as planned.
While in the KDL, Undera has a date with Lancaster, Murchison-Toolamba and Tallygaroopna will be fighting for the four points, Violet Town and Shepparton East clash, Avenel plays Girgarre, Nagambie will host Merrigum, Dookie United travels to Stanhope and Rushworth and Longwood do battle, while Ardmona has the bye.
The Murray and Picola District football netball leagues have already recommenced their seasons by playing matches in NSW.
The Victorian Government gave no indication on Tuesday if, or when, a further easing of restrictions would occur, meaning crowd allowances are still in limbo.
“It's a day-to-day proposition,” Health Minister Martin Foley said.
“When we've got more to say about that, as we've always indicated, we'll have more to say.”
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