28 October 2022
Published 26 November 2019
Moreton Bay is a step closer to hosting Olympic and Paralympic competition, backing a push that could see the 2032 Games hosted in South East Queensland.
At its General Meeting on 26 November 2019 Council resolved to become an equal partner in the SEQ 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games project led by the Council of Mayors (SEQ).
Mayor Allan Sutherland said the 2032 Games had the potential to deliver major regional infrastructure, create jobs and generate billions of dollars for the region’s economy.
“The 2000 Sydney Olympics generated $20 billion in economic value, and a 2032 Games could deliver a $22 billion tourism boost for Queensland alone,” Cr Sutherland said.
“Council of Mayors has been leading ongoing investigations into economic, infrastructure and legacy opportunities stemming from a SEQ 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“This work has identified Moreton Bay as a potential host region, and that is why council is investing – along with nine local councils and the state and federal governments – to support a bid that brings the games to SEQ.”
Mayor Sutherland said an Olympic and Paralympic Games could help to deliver government funding for critical major transport and infrastructure upgrades across SEQ.
“The Games could bring forward construction of planned infrastructure that will change the way we move through our region, and across SEQ in the future.
“Improved connectivity is paramount for the future economic development of our region, and this investment could be the best post-Games legacy for residents and local businesses.”
Mayor Sutherland said Moreton Bay would also benefit from pre-games training and activations, as well as the international exposure from hosting the biggest sporting event on the planet.
“Queensland was Australia’s largest pre-games training base in the lead-up to the Sydney 2000 Games hosting more than 2,500 athletes in 179 international teams from 48 countries,” he said.
“Queensland businesses also cashed in winning contracts to provide goods and services for the Sydney 2000 Games, from food and catering, building-related services, furniture and fit outs, and manufacturing.
“Moreton Bay is one of Queensland’s strongest regional economies, and home to businesses that are thriving on a national and international stage.
“We’ve already got world-class sporting infrastructure, and our region’s reputation for tourism is booming with more than 4.5 million annual visitors injecting more than a $1.13 billion into our economy.
“Moreton Bay is in the box seat to capitalise from the benefits associated with SEQ hosting the world’s largest sporting event.”