Cairns Barlow Park stadium could be a jewel in the city’s crown

Cowboys chief executive backs Cairns plan to spend millions on the proposed refurbishment of Barlow Park to allow the community to shine with a range of significant sporting activities.

HOPES are high that extra eyes on Cairns will translate into funding for a rectangular stadium as NRL giants the Rabbitohs take on the Cowboys at Barlow Park.

The pre-season clash will bring attention to the city’s premier sporting arena on Saturday, right when pressure has never been greater for Cairns to finally get a proper stadium.

Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel said Cairns deserved a venue to attract top-tier sporting events but, like facilities in other regional centres, it had to service the community.

North Queensland Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel is backing Cairns plan to renovate Barlow Park. Picture: Alix Sweeney

“All you need to do is look to Mackay, Sunshine Coast and Coffs Harbour,” he said.

“What they have this wonderful piece of community infrastructure which is used.

“There’s not necessarily a national team which plays out of there week-in, week-out, but the facility is there to be able to attract national games, (such as) the NRL, Super Rugby, A-League or the like.

“Cairns certainly deserves that, and the people of Cairns deserve that.”

Long-term stadium campaigners John Moore, 84, and former Cairns mayor Kevin Byrne, 72, hoped Cairns Regional Council would announce a massive upgrade.

“We met recently with two senior council officers on their plans to source federal funding to match state and council funding,” Mr Moore said.

“Probably for the first time ever, I’m confident now we are moving in the right direction.

“Now we need to get funding from the federal government, I am not at liberty to go into details as to what council is proposing but their plan will satisfy everyone.”

Community and business leaders have met with Cairns Regional Council officials and agreed on a master plan to upgrade Barlow Park into a world class combined rectangular stadium and athletics facility. The master plan uses the original footprint and builds on existing infrastructure to complete the stadium for under $100m. Picture: Brendan Radke

Mr Byrne said Cairns was ideal to find a space on the national sporting landscape.

“Barlow Park could be an incredible jewel in our crown, we can also pitch it to host rock concerts such as Elton John or events like the 2027 World Rugby Cup,” he said.

Former Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne is working toward Barlow Park being rebuilt as a key venue to benefit the FNQ community. Picture: Brendan Radke

Council CEO Mica Martin said state and federal funding opportunities were being investigated.

“Detailed options for a major events precinct at the Barlow Park/Showgrounds are being prepared (and) these will be formally presented to the mayor and councillors at the earliest opportunity … ” she said.

GAME DAY

Today – Barlow Park

Gates open 2.20pm

Yarrabah v Northern Pride Invitational 2.50pm

Rabbitohs v Cowboys 5pm

Patrons will be required to provide proof of double vaccination upon entry and check in at venue using the check-in QLD app.

Tickets can be bought in advance at 123tix.com.au

Rabbitohs v Cowboys will be streamed live on Kayo

Originally published as Cairns Barlow Park stadium could be a jewel in the city’s crown