The club are not aiming for 17,000, that is what the capacity will be post development. To confirm, there is near on zero upgrades to Shark Park as part of this development. The capacity will have dropped by about 5,000 as a result of the development.
Ace Gutters are still an arm sleeve sponsor and Aramex are now into their 4th year I think as main jersey sponsor. From last study, I think the Sharks have one of the NRLs most long standing group of playing kit sponsors. Aramex, Zambrero, Ace and Southern Comfort have all been with the club for their fourth season now. Ace Gutters FYI is owned by a multi millionaire who is a lifelong Sharks man. They are a welcome sponsor anytime.
You are bang on right about the requirement for ongoing commercial activity and you are right once more that they are not the only Sydney club which must get this right. In this respect, they are in no more a precarious position than Souths, Rooster, Manly and Bulldogs. Any “club”, “union” or “community” which is a predominantly geographically dependent commercial entity must always uphold itself as the welcoming and hospitable venue for new fans. A new wave of residents from other areas with varying levels of RL fandom is more so an opportunity, than a risk.
Sustainability on the other hand is not attained by standard of play or number of premierships. It is done by being a beacon of community and being a proud and respected representative of that community.
For what it is worth, I anticipate the Sharks long term future includes growing outside the Shire and into Dragons territory, whilst the Dragons future will not remain in St George.