By Loretta Lohberger

Topic: Regional Communities

Sat 1 Aug 2026 at 2:25pm

Hawthorn has played home games in Launceston for 25 years, but this will end next year.

In short

Hawthorn played state-sponsored home games in Launceston for 25 years.

The deal stops at the end of next year as the Tasmania Devils join the national competition from 2028.

What's next?

The Devils' home games may give Launceston an economic boost, but losing the Hawks is a big loss for the city.

Hawthorn's last season in Launceston is ending, and there's a mix of sadness and hope.

The Hawks are third on the AFL ladder and may play in the finals.

There's sadness and nostalgia around the last game.

Hawthorn played home games in Launceston for 25 years.

Lance Franklin played exciting football at York Park.

Hawthorn got about a million dollars per game from the Tasmanian government.

Hawthorn games in Launceston generated $20.8 million in 2022.

About 12,500 people went to each game, with 16% from interstate or overseas.

Victorian Alan Pell came to Launceston for the game and to play golf.

Terri Isaac, Alan Pell, and Dee Wilson travelled from Victoria to cheer on the Hawks.

The atmosphere in Launceston is great on game day.

People want to experience their last efforts to see the Hawks in Launceston.

Hawthorn has been in Launceston for 25 years, and it feels like part of the community.

The Hawks have a good record at York Park, also called 'the fortress'.

Another hit for northern Tasmania

The community is concerned about the Hawks leaving and the impact on the economy.

The Devils must deliver on their promises for economic and social benefits.

Alex Britton is a restaurant co-owner and a Launceston City Councillor.

Losing the Hawks, Boag's, and Liberty Bell Bay is horrible for the town.

There are good things happening, but it's a major hit.

The AFL announced that Hawthorn would leave Tasmania to focus on the Devils.

The brown and gold was on display in Launceston before the game.

Hawthorn was disappointed in the AFL's decision to end their relationship with Launceston.

The club had argued to continue playing games in Launceston.

The Hawks will play their final home game at York Park next season.

Cr Britton hopes the Devils' games will bring in custom for hospitality businesses.

It will work, but Launceston has had many hits recently.

York Park has been Hawthorn's home away from home since 2001.

Hawks fans hope their team will go all the way this year and start their final Tasmanian year as premiers.

There's sadness around leaving, but the team wants to celebrate their last year.

The Hawks hope to return to Tasmanian turf when the Devils enter the competition.

Mr Pell hopes to see a Devils versus Hawks game.

He'll cheer for the Hawks, but he's interested in seeing the Devils play.

See more ABC coverage

Promotion

Hörübung