Following the Townsville Fire’s thrilling victory against Perth Lynx in last night’s semifinal, the need for a new world-class entertainment and sporting venue in Townsville has once again been thrown into the spotlight. With a potential home grand final on the horizon and event promoters actively considering Townsville for major concerts, the pressure is mounting on the State and Federal Governments to commit to funding a new Entertainment Arena for the city.
Townsville City Councillor Suzy Batkovic has congratulated her former team on their success and called on the Government to act in supporting women’s sport in North Queensland.
“I am incredibly proud to see the Fire reach the finals for the fifth time. These women continue to inspire our region, playing at the highest level of basketball and representing our city with pride.”
“However, when we compare the facilities our four-time premiership-winning team plays in to other venues across the country—and even within Townsville itself—it raises serious questions about equity and the priority placed on women’s sport.”
“Townsville’s Entertainment and Convention Centre (TECC) was deemed to have reached the end of its life more than a decade ago, according to a 2013 Feasibility Study. Recent weather events have caused further damage, and a full assessment is now underway, but we anticipate it to say this venue is no viable.”
General Manager of Townsville Fire, Sam Pascoe, reinforced the urgent need for a modern, purpose-built facility.
“This team is proud to represent Townsville, but our current venue simply isn’t fit for purpose. Our athletes and our fans deserve a venue that matches their passion and commitment.”
“There’s a clear path to the 2032 Olympics, and while significant investments have been made in indoor sporting infrastructure across the state, Townsville is still being left behind. We can’t afford to wait any longer.”
Townsville City Council and Townsville Enterprise has been advocating for a $360 million joint funding commitment from the State and Federal Governments to develop a world-class arts and entertainment arena, owned by the State Government via Stadiums Queensland. Despite numerous budget and election submissions, this crucial project remains unfunded.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme-Smith reiterated that a multi-purpose entertainment and arts facility is essential for the city’s future growth.
“This project has been on the agenda for years. It was always envisioned as the next step in Townsville’s evolution following the development of Queensland Country Bank Stadium. The current TECC was deemed at end of life more than a decade ago, and despite minor upgrades, the ongoing maintenance costs and venue limitations make a new arena an absolute necessity.”
“It’s beyond time. Our premiership-winning basketball team deserves a venue that reflects their excellence. This city deserves the ability to host major music artists, cultural events, business conferences, and exhibitions. As the largest city in Northern Australia, we need an entertainment arena that will transform our region and deliver world-class arts, business, education, and cultural opportunities.”
“Right now, we are in discussions with national event promoters about bringing major performers and shows to Townsville. But without a 10,000pax indoor venue, we simply cannot compete.”
