Inside the epic stadium which set to steal the Gabba’s Test match

The Gabba Test has been a staple of Brisbane’s calendar for five decades, but a world class venue to be constructed interstate is about to rip the match away.

The Gabba is on the outer with Cricket Australia. Photo: Steve Pohlner

A world class stadium set to be built in Tasmania will likely rip Brisbane’s beloved Gabba Test away from Queensland until a new venue is constructed.

Hobart’s Macquarie Point Stadium will be a roofed venue with a capacity of 23,000 and was a condition of the state being granted a licence to become the AFL’s 19th team.

As well as the ability to host major concerts and cultural events indoors, the proposed $715m venue will also feature a 1500-capacity conference centre which could “transform” the hospitality sector.

Business Events Tasmania CEO Marnie Craig said the new facilities could attract an additional 110 conferences to Hobart and an extra 140,000 visitors, with annual revenue possibilities in excess of $100m.

Hobart’s new AFL stadium will be world class. Pictures – Supplied

The Gabba will host an Ashes Test next year but, for the first time in 50 years, will not host a Test in 2026-27 as a result of uncertainty over Brisbane’s Olympic plans.

It remains to be seen whether the Gabba will be included in Cricket Australia’s plans beyond the 2026-27 summer.

The venue is nestled on Hobart’s iconic waterfront. Pictures – Supplied

The roof will allow players and fans to keep warm during winter. Pictures – Supplied

It will also allow for epic concerts.

The stadium has been a point of great debate in Tasmania.