We welcome the State Government's establishment of a taskforce to evaluate the management of Stadiums Queensland venues. It is important that the review not only provides the framework for the operation of the new North Queensland Stadium but also delivers an effective strategy to attract a wide range of major events to the region.
The taskforce will assess Stadiums Queensland owned assets, including putting Townsville's 1300SMILES Stadium under the microscope, which is welcomed news to ensure this venue is being used to its maximum potential. However, in order for our region to be appropriately considered in the new operating strategy, the taskforce should seek input from North Queensland representation.
Experienced sports administrator, John Lee, has been appointed by Minister for Sport, Mick de Brenni, to lead the assessment, with the taskforce announced as "a team of infrastructure, finance and commercial experts from within government and external consultancies".
While we look forward to the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys kicking off on their new home turf in 2020, the North Queensland Stadium has always been more than just football. This venue will provide our region greater capacity in attracting major national and international events, delivering significant contributions to our local economy, as well as strengthening the liveability of Townsville North Queensland.
Townsville Enterprise looks forward to further announcements on the makeup of this taskforce and engaging with the State Government on this structural review.
