Gather Round Podcast: AFL in Adelaide & Barossa

0:00AFL Gather Round is heating up in South Australia, with the rain finally easing off for Friday night and the weekend matches. The Bureau of Meteorology says showers and Adelaide will stay light today, maybe just a millimeter or so, and they'll fade as the weekend rolls on. All nine round five games are packed into Adelaide in the Barossa Valley, kicking off after Thursday's wet opener between the Adelaide Crows and Carlton at Adelaide Oval. Fans aren't letting high-fuel prices or weather stop them from showing up. Families like the shees drove from Victoria, stopping in robe on the way, and say the trip was worth every extra dollar for North Melbourne's clash. With Brisbane Lions at Barossa Park on Saturday, locals in the Barossa are buzzing too. With Lions fan Alia Koon calling the influx of supporters, crazy, but cool for small businesses. The events delivering a real economic lift, just like last year when it pumped five million dollars into the Barossa alone. Wineries like Magella and Kunawara saw better than expected crowds since Easter, beating

1:03back fears of a fuel-price slump. Barossa Mayor Bim Lang is hyped for the enormous boost from the two games there this weekend. Negotiations are ongoing to lock in. Gather round's future in South Australia, after this year's deal expires. Premier Peter Malinowska says, tauts with AFL Boss Andrew Dylan are close, but not rushed, claiming to iron out differences soon. Sydney Swans' chair wants a split event next year, but the premier is pushing to keep it here, with cold winds lingering but skies clearing, expect pack stands, and happy locals caching in. The Barossa is ready to shine, rain or shine, serving up top wines, food, and that unbeatable vibe. Sydney News today, powered by AI bringing you what matters.