6 August 2022
Published 03 December 2019
If the crowd reaction at last month’s Brisbane Roar vs. Melbourne City match at Dolphins Stadium is anything to go by, the announcement that Moreton Bay Regional Council has signed off on a $2.5 million contribution to finishing the stadium’s expansion is sure to get a massive cheer.
Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Allan Sutherland said it made economic sense to contribute towards stage 3 of Dolphins Stadium to a create 10,000 seat boutique venue.
“We’re already the club’s biggest partner, having contributed over $8.5 million in support to date, which is an investment that’s returning massive dividends for our region through tourism and events,” he said.
“The demand is there, the crowds keep coming and if the Brisbane Roar game is anything to go by there’s no reason why we shouldn’t be angling to have more elite-level sports being played at Dolphins.”
“Even more importantly, this allows council to continue to invest in other facilities as there are no ongoing maintenance and depreciation costs for ratepayers.
The Mayor also welcomed the Federal Government’s commitment of up to $3.5 million towards the project. The council’s contribution is contingent upon the Federal funding being delivered.
Spokesperson for Economic Development, Events and Tourism Cr Peter Flannery said bringing in larger crowds to the stadium is a huge win for the region’s economy.
“Attracting visitors to the stadium is fantastic as many travel to the region and then stay overnight or longer. On average these visitors spend $278 per visitor per day in our local businesses.
“This investment in this type of top-class infrastructure not only cements our reputation as the rugby league heartland of Queensland, but it provides our community with a year-round, diverse venue of choice, not only for sports, but for community events.”
Division 5 Councillor James Houghton said that this investment was crucial for grassroots clubs and many other sports now utilising this facility year round.
“The Dolphins provides pathways for various clubs across the region including the Albany Creek Crushers, North Lakes Kangaroos, Moreton Bay Raiders, Burpengary Jets, Dayboro Cowboys, Narangba Rangers, Beachmere Juniors, Pine Rivers Bears, Bribie Island and District Junior Rugby League and the Caboolture Snakes.
“Hopefully one day many of these young champions will go on to play in the NRL, for their state or even country. Regardless of where they end up, we know the best communities are those that are active and healthy.
“It is great to see the stadium and club evolve thanks to the support we have provided – we now attract everything from the Murri Cup to the Christian Soccer Federation National Tournament,” Cr Houghton said.