New Townsville stadium a game changer for North Queensland

Published Thursday, 12 May, 2016 at 10:58 AM

Minister for Disability Services, Minister for Seniors and Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland
The Honourable Coralee O'Rourke

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke has increased pressure on the Turnbull Government to fund the Townsville stadium, telling State Parliament today the project is vital to kick start growth, opportunities and jobs in the north.

“Like other North Queenslanders, I was absolutely gutted on Budget night to see there was no Federal funding for the Townsville stadium - despite overwhelming community support,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“And in another blow, today’s Townsville Bulletin is reporting that our beloved Cowboys may have to pack up and leave if we don’t get a new stadium.

“Jonathon Thurston called out the Prime Minister for his inaction on grand final night, and he’s done it again in today’s local paper.

“There’s no more excuses. Townsville needs this stadium because it will do more for our city than holding sporting events.

“Initially, it will create up to 700 jobs during construction. But the real, long term benefits will come after the stadium is built.

“This vital project will completely revitalise Townsville’s CBD. It will allow us to host bigger and better events.

“This will attract more visitors to our region, from within Queensland, interstate and overseas, who will stimulate our local economy, staying in our hotels, dining in our restaurants and visiting our local attractions.

“This is more than just a stadium, it is the boost Townsville needs to create growth and opportunities.”

Minister O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government had presented the stadium business case to the Turnbull Government five months ago.  

“There was plenty of time to ensure funding for this vital project was included in the Federal Budget, but the Federal Member for Herbert has failed the people of Townsville,” she said.

“Ewen Jones has refused to fight for our city, he’s turned his back on this game changer for Townsville.

“The Federal Budget is more proof the LNP aren’t serious about the north, jobs or regional growth.

“It’s the same thing we’ve seen from Queensland’s new opposition leader, who issued a press release last weekend outlining Queensland infrastructure projects – but there was no mention of the stadium.

“Despite the lack of support from both State and Federal LNP, the Palaszczuk Government’s $100 million commitment towards the stadium remains rock solid and this has been matched by Federal Labor and Bill Shorten.

“We will continue to work closely with Townsville City Council, the NRL and rugby league fraternity, as well as the community to make this project a reality.”

Media Contact:                                  Minister O’Rourke’s office                  3719 7184