Ian Chesterman, the President of the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC), has expressed his support for calls to abandon the proposed redevelopment of the Brisbane Cricket Ground, commonly known as the Gabba, for the 2032 Brisbane Games. Chesterman believes that there are alternative solutions that offer more creativity and cost-effectiveness.
Chesterman's remarks came shortly after John Coates, an influential figure within the Olympic community, also voiced his concerns about the financial viability of the $2.7 billion rebuild. Coates argued that the project does not stack up economically.
"The International Olympic Committee's new norm process aims to ensure that the Games are both affordable and sustainable, with a strong preference for utilising existing or temporary facilities," stated Chesterman, emphasising the AOC's alignment with the review of Games plans. On the same day, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner declared that the Gabba rebuild was no longer viable, while the Greens urged the Premier to scrap the plans.
"We believe there are alternative, more innovative solutions than rebuilding the Gabba for the Games, which could leave a lasting legacy for our sports and enable greater access for fans to an exceptional Olympic and Paralympic Games. We will present these ideas to the review committee," Chesterman added.
Coates, the Vice-President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), proposed that the rebuild be abandoned and suggested hosting the opening and closing ceremonies at Suncorp Stadium, with the athletics events taking place at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre.
According to veteran journalist Robert 'Crash' Craddock from News Corp, cricket would be the biggest loser if the redevelopment plans are scrapped. The Gabba had hoped to secure marquee Australian matches once the rebuild was completed. However, it may now have to settle for lesser Tests, trailing behind the revamped Adelaide Oval, the modern Optus Stadium, and the larger venues of the MCG and SCG in more prominent cities.
"The Gabba is now destined to be the fifth-best venue in Australia for the next 20 years," said Craddock during an interview with SENQ Breakfast. "This setback is significant because the Gabba was counting on this opportunity, and now it's gone. The political landscape surrounding the Gabba redevelopment has become toxic, particularly with an upcoming state election this year. Both sides of politics were apprehensive, with the public focusing more on concerns about youth crime, cost of living, and housing. Stadium redevelopment was not a priority."
The football fans are also waiting for the results of the review. The Brisbane Lions football club uses the Gabba as the home ground for matches. While the Lions declined to comment, a statement released by the club in November 2022 expressed their support for the Gabba redevelopment. Lions Chairman Andrew Wellington emphasised the need for a modernised venue to accommodate their growing fanbase.
Although both the Lions and Queensland Cricket, the other major tenant of the Gabba, were hesitant to contribute millions of dollars towards the upgrade of the Brisbane Showgrounds, they recognised the wider benefits of the project. This included improved facilities for commuters, event-goers, the creation of community spaces, and the development of a commercial and residential precinct with affordable housing opportunities.
The Lions and cricket authorities now eagerly await a detailed update on the Gabba's future and the government's decision on a temporary venue during the displacement period. They remain committed to meeting the expectations of their loyal supporters throughout this transitional phase.