Showtech was contracted by event organizer Peter Jones Special Events to deliver the two special rigging items for the production. The Engineering and OHS considerations of delivering these two effects were several months in the planning and had to meet the strict guidelines of the Victorian OHS regulations, the guidelines of the stadium management, and the challenges of not impacting on the playing surface. The match begins 20 minutes after the ceremony was completed.
The first effect was six singers appearing high on the scoreboard roof. 50m above the field. The performers, camera operators, audio, and pyrotechnics crews all had to be closely coordinated so as not to exceed the roof loadings of the stadium, and meet the safety standards required, while still maintaining the 'look' of the performers. Showtech's riggers worked closely with all the production departments to ensure a seamless and efficient delivery of the opening number for both the crowded stadium, and the television audience.
The second effect was the delivery of the Premiership cup from the roof top of the southern grandstand to the centre of the field down a flying line. The cup was housed in a clear acrylic box, with Pyrotechnic rockets attached, that flew down the line and was then delivered to the AFL ambassador.
(Jim Evans)
