Stadiums Queensland putting fans first

The Palaszczuk Government has today released the Stadiums Queensland Taskforce Final Report, which puts fans front and centre of all stadiums events.

Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni said it was important Queensland’s stadiums offered opportunities for Queenslanders to see the very best in state, national and international events.

“These venues are first and foremost for the fans and we want our strategy to reflect that.

“So, whether you’re coming along to watch the Big Bash or your favourite band, the Palaszczuk Government is committed to ensuring a memorable experience for everyone involved.”

Stadiums Queensland manages, operates and promotes the use of nine major Queensland facilities, including the Gabba and Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast.

The portfolio is valued at $1.8 billion and they belong to all Queenslanders.

“It’s important these venues are operated effectively and efficiently for the benefit of all stakeholders, including, hirers, clubs and sporting codes.

“But most importantly we want fans to come through the gates and have a good time.”

 Mr de Brenni has asked Stadiums Queensland to consider strategies to improve the fan experience at our major stadiums and venues.

“The Stadiums Taskforce Report is an opportunity for Stadiums Queensland to reset and re-focus and I have been advised by the Chair that the organisation is working to enhance its fan experience division and devote dedicated resources and roles to achieve this.”

Mr de Brenni said that the report is another step in delivering a whole of precinct redevelopment of Woolloongabba in partnership with Cross River Rail and Queensland’s first ever build-to-rent scheme development.

“Cross River Rail will deliver new and exciting opportunities for the Gabba and will unlock the potential to reinvent the stadium to improve fan experience and keep its place as an internationally renowned venue.

“The Stadium Taskforce Report backs this in and the government is already working on the recommendations relating to naming rights and management rights.”

Mr de Brenni said the independent Stadiums Queensland Taskforce review was chaired by experienced sports administrator John Lee.

“Mr Lee has now delivered his final report which is a substantial and detailed in-depth examination of the operation of Stadiums Queensland. 

“It includes further recommendations to improve the operation and pricing models for our stadiums and major sporting events,” he said.

“The report confirmed Queensland has enough stadiums to support the existing sporting landscape, as well as potential future events.

 “The report found ticket prices and food and beverage prices at major sporting venues were comparable or cheaper than in other states.

Mr Lee said Queensland had fantastic stadiums that could cater for a variety of sport, entertainment and cultural events.

“Queensland has stadiums in regional areas and faces different challenges to other states which have their main stadium infrastructure in their capital cities,” said Mr Lee.

“The main focus for the foreseeable future should be on maintaining and upgrading Queensland’s existing stadiums to ensure hirers and the fans get the very best experience.”

The final report builds on the ongoing implementation of the recommendations of the interim report including:

• A $3.10 transport cap has been implemented for the 2018/19 A-League season and 2018/19 cricket season at the Gabba and Metricon Stadium
• AFL’s annual contributions to the Metricon Stadium sinking fund have been reduced
• Cbus Super Stadium traffic management plan will be completed by the start of the 2019 NRL season
• Translink will provide the delivery of bus services for Gold Coast stadiums by early 2019
• An EOI for naming rights at the Gabba is anticipated for release by early 2019
• Progress on assessing the cost effectiveness of co-sourcing of the Gabba’s venue management is well underway

The Government will consider the in-depth and comprehensive report and will meet its commitment to respond as part of its first 10-year Sport and Active Recreation Strategy due in 2019, which will chart a course for the future of sport and active recreation in Queensland.

A copy of the Stadium Taskforce Final Report can be found at http://www.hpw.qld.gov.au/Sport/StadiumsTaskforce/Pages/default.aspx

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Media contact – Rosie Gilbert 0466 834 330