Strong start to the season for public transport users

Sport Minister Judy Spence said public transport was on top of the ladder early in the season following the success of People’s Day at Skilled Park.

Ms Spence said: “With the Titans taking on the Tigers this Saturday night I remind all patrons that public transport is the best way to get your team to the game.

“Almost 70% of patrons used public transport to get to the opening of the Queensland Government’s new $160 million venue on February 17.

“I caught the train from Runcorn in my electorate down to Skilled Park for the People’s Day and was pleased with how easy it was to get to the venue,” she said.

"We have established a first-rate transport hub adjacent to the stadium and I encourage all patrons attending this Saturday’s Titans v Tigers match to catch public transport.

“There is no reason to attempt to drive to the stadium when buses shuttle people from park ‘n’ ride facilities located close to the stadium and regular rail and bus services offer free travel to patrons attending events at the stadium.

"The traffic management plan will be operational for the Titans v Tigers match meaning there will be no car parking in the stadium precinct.”

Ms Spence said the land upon which the stadium has been built was provided by the Gold Coast City Council, due to its proximity to transport infrastructure.

“Contemporary best practice in respect of moving patrons to and from major events is to limit the use of private vehicles in the stadium precinct as occurs at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and London’s Emirates Stadium.

“The use of public transport results in minimal disruptions to the stadium precinct, protecting the amenity of local residents who live nearby, while enabling patrons to get into and out of Skilled Park in an efficient and orderly manner.”

Ms Spence said examples are readily available of congestion and patron frustration associated with allowing too many private vehicles into a stadium precinct, as was the case at Carrara during the Titans matches in 2007.

“It only stands to reason that congestion is inevitable when there are thousands of patrons attempting to exit a venue at one time by car.”

Further information:

Tickets from www.ticketek.com.au or 13 28 49

Gates open: 3.30pm

Kick off: 7.30pm

Media contact: 3239 6218