PREMIER AND LORD MAYOR DECLARE STORY BRIDGE OPEN FOR EVENTS

Published Monday, 22 September, 2014 at 03:00 AM

Premier
The Honourable Campbell Newman

Planners and organisers could take special events to new heights with the opportunity to have the Story Bridge closed for several occasions a year.

Premier Campbell Newman and Lord Mayor Graham Quirk today announced that the Story Bridge would become available to event organisers as a host location for events in Brisbane.

With Riverfire, one of Brisbane’s most spectacular fireworks displays using the Story Bridge this Saturday night, they invited special event organisers to submit an application to use the Story Bridge for other event purposes.

“The Story Bridge, arguably Queensland’s most iconic structure, is now open for business. I encourage event organisers with a fantastic idea that will showcase Brisbane to the world, to get online and apply to use it as part of a special occasion,” Mr Newman said.

“That could involve events such as a major road race or fun run, a cycling event or a significant cultural event.

“In the coming years, Queensland will be on the world stage with major international events including the G20 Summit, AFC Asian Cup, ICC Cricket World Cup and 21st Commonwealth Games. We’re keen to keep Brisbane in the international spotlight in the years to come through the use of this superstructure.

“Until now, the Story Bridge has had limited use for event purposes, and has been closed only for Riverfire, given the extensive traffic management and safety concerns of a bridge closure.

“My government has been working with Brisbane City Council to develop strategies to mitigate concerns and allow one of the most popular structures to be used for events.”

Lord Mayor Graham Quirk said strong community interest in using the Story Bridge as a unique location to host events was a direct result of the bridge’s ever-increasing popularity.

“This is further recognition that the bridge is a focal point for the Brisbane community,” Cr Quirk said.

“With the popular Bridge Climb program and Council’s innovative LED lighting displays regularly used to raise awareness for important causes, the Story Bridge’s status as an icon of our city is ever increasing.

“Not only will this be a great addition to our city’s event venues, it will further confirm that Brisbane is Australia’s New World City.”

Event organisers must apply to use the Story Bridge through a rigorous and open application process where a maximum of four events a year will be approved for a full bridge closure.

Applications for events being held from January to June 2015 are now open and close by COB Friday 24 October 2014. Successful applicants will be announced in December 2014.

Visit www.qld.gov.au/events to apply or for more information.

[ENDS] 22 September 2014

Media contact: 3719 7000 (Premier’s Office)

Media Contact Lord Mayor: Eloise McNee ph: 0478 308 318