The aftershocks of Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale's marriage breakdown continue to reverberate through the Australian Football League, with rival players now reportedly facing the consequences. In the wake of Neale's separation from his wife Jules, clubs have discreetly introduced what insiders are terming the 'Neale tax' ahead of Saturday night's highly anticipated State of Origin clash in Perth.
Neale's Personal Turmoil Sparks AFL Policy Shift
Neale confirmed the couple's separation in early January, stating to reporters, 'Jules and I have separated. I have let my family down and I apologise for my actions … I need to rebuild the trust with Jules.' The fallout from this split, coupled with allegations involving Jules' former best friend Tess Crosley, has cast an unprecedented spotlight on AFL partners and their activities during interstate trips.
Clubs Respond with New Travel Initiatives
According to News Corp reports, at least one club has already adopted a new initiative that encourages partners to accompany players for major fixtures. This measure, dubbed the 'Neale tax,' may impose additional financial costs but is designed to alleviate off-field concerns and foster stability. With the State of Origin concept being revived in the AFL after 27 years, a host of players are travelling to Perth for Saturday's clash, and many of their partners are joining them.
WAGs Flock to Perth for Origin Event
As Western Australia prepares to host Victoria at Optus Stadium on Saturday night, partners are heading west in significant numbers. Notable attendees include Patrick and Mardi Dangerfield, who travelled earlier this week with their children and Geelong teammate Bailey Smith. Other partners making the trip include Casey Battle, Lexi Lobb, Georgia Stirton, Jess Gawn, Paris Stubberfield, and Arlette Amor.
The influx of partners has led to a packed schedule of AFL dinners, brunch plans, and Valentine's Day celebrations surrounding the match, reinforcing the expectation that partners should be present at marquee events. This heightened awareness has even permeated football commentary, with Kane Cornes joking during a Stick or Pick segment on SEN Breakfast, 'Jules Neale or Tess Crosley,' to which co-host David King swiftly replied, 'I'm not playing that game.'
State of Origin Clash Draws Massive Interest
The Origin clash itself, set to begin at 7.40pm AEDT on Saturday, has officially sold out, with fans flocking to Optus Stadium to witness the return of representative football. When the AFL confirmed the comeback of State of Origin, chief executive Andrew Dillon expressed enthusiasm, stating that fans and players had been 'calling for its return for some time and we are thrilled to see it back.' He added, 'Ultimately it's about us playing games that the fans want and we know that the fans will flock to this game when we get the best players from WA and Victoria on a massive stage.'
The introduction of the 'Neale tax' underscores a broader shift in AFL culture, where personal matters are increasingly influencing club policies and player dynamics. As the league navigates this new landscape, the focus remains on balancing on-field performance with off-field well-being, ensuring that events like the State of Origin are celebrated without distraction.
