The Queensland government has confirmed that a new 63,000-seat stadium will be the highlight of Brisbane 2032, part of a comprehensive plan to be realised within the existing budget of $7.1 billion.
Under the leadership of David Crisafulli, the government also announced that a new national aquatic centre will be constructed in Spring Hill. This venue will accommodate 25,000 spectators during the Games and will serve as the long-term base for the national sporting bodies encompassing swimming, artistic swimming, water polo, and diving.
Additionally, upgrades to the Queensland Tennis Centre have been confirmed, aiming to ensure that the tennis events for Brisbane 2032 retain their prestige and do not shift to Melbourne Park.
The Fitzroy River in Rockhampton, known for its crocodile population, will host rowing and canoe sprint events.
On Tuesday, 1343 days after Brisbane was announced as the host city for the 2032 Games, the Queensland government unveiled the finalised venue and infrastructure plan, marking a pivotal moment for Australia’s first Olympics and Paralympics since Sydney in 2000.
The new stadium will facilitate athletics during the Games and will continue to host Brisbane Lions matches and international cricket in the years to come, while the Gabba will still host AFL and cricket in the meantime.
However, the construction of a new stadium at inner-city Victoria Park has drawn criticism, primarily due to concerns that it will eliminate a significant amount of green space, which environmental advocates argue is vital for moderating temperatures and enhancing air quality.
An artist’s impression of how Victoria Park and Spring Hill will look come Brisbane 2032. Supplied
The Queensland Tennis Centre, home to Pat Rafter Arena, will also see expansion, adding a new 3000-seat show court and 12 additional match courts.
Athlete villages will be located across Brisbane Showgrounds, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast.
The construction of the national aquatic centre will involve the enhancement of Centenary Pool, accompanied by both a main and secondary stadium, which will have a legacy capacity reduced from the initial 25,000 seats to 8000 seats.
The Brisbane Aquatic Centre in Chandler is also set to undergo upgrades, hosting a small segment of events during the Games.
An artist’s impression of how the national aquatic centre will look. Supplied
An inside look at the national aquatic centre, according to an artist’s impression. Supplied
Rob Woodhouse, the chief executive of Swimming Australia, praised the approval of the national aquatic centre, calling it “the most significant investment ever in aquatic sports in Australia”.
“In addition to the crucial community and health advantages for all Australians, the NAC [national aquatic centre] will establish a path for sustainable success in aquatic sports for the next 50 years, well beyond the 2032 Games,” Woodhouse stated.
“Our outstanding Paralympians and Olympians will motivate us all with their accomplishments at the NAC in 2032 and for many years thereafter.
“Thank you to the Queensland government for recognising the true legacy the NAC will deliver for all Australians.”
Crisafulli remarked that the government’s strategy would guarantee a “lasting legacy.”
“We now possess a clear blueprint for 2032 and beyond, and it’s time to set the wheels in motion,” Crisafulli concluded.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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