The Redcliffe Dolphins’ NRL stadium is to turn into a diamond next year under a switch of venues for the 2027 women’s softball world cup finals.
The decision was announced by Softball Australia CEO Sarah Leo at the stadium at Kippa-Ring on the Redcliffe Peninsula in Brisbane today.
The NRL stadium will be converted into a purpose-built international-standard softball diamond when the Aussie Spirit take on seven nations from April 5-11, 2027.
The stadium will be off limits for six to 10 weeks “from start to finish”, according to Loh, with work required to transform the playing surface.
“It’s going to be absolutely amazing to see a softball diamond here,” she says, pointing out that the stadium has hosted non-rugby league events before.
She also confirmed that the stadium will be considered for future non-Cup games like Test series and regional competitions.
The finals have been moved from the original venue of nearby Talobilla Park with the backing of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) but the park will remain the official warm‑up and training venue.
Last year, it was announced that the park would host the finals as a qualifier for the 2028 LA Olympics; click here for our report.
REDCLIFFE STADIUM BOOSTS CAPACITY
Federal Sports Minister Anika Wells says the stadium “is going to be an incredible home” for the finals with its 10,000 seat capacity.
“That’s the atmosphere a Los Angeles28 Olympic qualifier deserves,” she says.
“This isn’t just a tournament – it’s a legacy. Young girls around Australia will watch the Aussie Spirit compete on the world stage and dare to dream.”
Sport and Olympics Minister Tim Mander says hosting the world cup finals should encourage more women and girls to play the game.
Softball Australia CEO Sarah Loh said the move is a significant step forward for their sport.
“Hosting the World Cup Finals at Kayo Stadium allows us to present women’s softball on a truly international stage,” she says.
“This is about elevating softball, showcasing our sport to new audiences, and creating more opportunities for people to fall in love with softball.”
She says the home plate will be in front of the stadium’s broadcast grandstand on the western flank.
Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery says hosting the world cup finals at the stadium is a major win for the City.
“Hosting this event reinforces our commitment to supporting sport and attracting major events that deliver lasting community and economic benefits,” he says.
Also present at today’s ceremony were Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery, Dolphins President Bob Jones, Federal MP for Petrie Emma Comer, MP for Redcliffe Kerrie-Anne Dooley and members from Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association, Softball Queensland, Jayme Reddacliff and Nicole Connachers from the Aussie Spirit national team and head coach Kerrie Porter.)
Fans can register for ticket updates via Softball Australia.
