Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium is to get more seats and a giant wraparound screen with work due to start at the end of this year.
The Queensland Government says planned upgrades include giant scoreboards, a 360-degree wraparound LED ribbon board suspended from the roof, two tennis-court sized media mesh screens, new terraced areas behind the in-goal areas and entertainment zones.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli claims the work will ensure the stadium is modernised as the city prepares to host the Olympic games in 2032.
“We’re giving it the love it deserves so it’s up to scratch for a growing State,” he says.
“We’re adding new video screens, more capacity, new bars and entertainment zones”
The capacity is expected to increase (from 52,500) to almost 54,000, according to reports.
Government says funding will come from its Legacy Fund and that no extra money will be needed.
BRISBANE’S STADIUM STATUS
Tourism Minister and Acting Sport Minister Andrew Powell says the government wants to make Queensland the events capital of Australia.
“Suncorp Stadium plays a central role in our major events calendar,” he says.
“These upgrades will ensure it remains a fortress for our home teams and a magnet for some of the biggest events on the planet.”
Stadiums Queensland CEO Todd Harris says now is the ideal time to spend on Brisbane's stadium although in 2003, it completed a $280m redevelopment.
“Since its redevelopment, Suncorp Stadium has become the home of the Brisbane Broncos, Dolphins (both NRL), Queensland Reds (Super Rugby) and Brisbane Roar (A League), as well as a growing list of internationally significant events,” he says.
“Investment is key in ensuring it keeps pace with demand. This will further enhance the venue’s ability to host the world’s biggest events.”
Brisbane Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy welcomed the news.
“Suncorp Stadium has been our spiritual home since our beginning and we welcome this announcement,” he says.
“Our members, fans and Queenslanders deserve a world-class game-day experience; these upgrades will ensure (the) stadium continues to provide experiences for fans and their families.”
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