Dolphin Stadium upgrade will allow more sporting codes to use facilities
Work has started on the final stage of Dolphin Stadium – council says the increased capacity of the stadium will provide a big boost to the region’s tourism and economy.
Moreton
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One of southeast Queensland’s newest stadiums will be used for a lot more than rugby league when the project’s final stage is completed later this year.
Dolphin Stadium, at Kippa-Ring, near Redcliffe north of Brisbane, is home to the Redcliffe Dolphins – an Intrust Super Cup team.
It has also been used for A-League fixtures, W-League matches, FFA cup games, football and touch football tournaments.
Work started on the stadium’s final stage, a northern grandstand, this week.
The $6.5 million project is jointly funded by Redcliffe District Rugby League Club, Federal Government and Moreton Bay Regional Council.
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The upgrade will also include more spectator amenities, an equipment storage area below the grandstand, as well as new scoreboard displays and a refurbishment of the change room facilities to cater for different sporting teams and female athletes.
Redcliffe Dolphins Chairman Bob Jones said the increased seating capacity would open up more opportunities to attract major events to the Moreton Bay Region.
“The chance to host even more national and international events generates massive exposure for our region through broadcast as well as huge economic benefits from visitor spending,” Mr Jones said.
Every person travelling from outside the area to watch events at Dolphin Stadium is spending here, whether it’s with accommodation providers, tourism operators or at coffee shops, restaurants and bars. It all equals money for our local economy.
“I expect we’ll be putting up the ‘sold out’ sign on major events, even with the additional seating.”
Design and construction company Paynters, responsible for delivering Stages 1 and 2 has also been appointed to construct Stage 3.
Paynters plan to engage local trades and suppliers where possible and are expected to create 80-100 jobs including 15-20 apprentices.
Managing Director Nigel Gardiner said that he was incredibly proud the final piece of the puzzle was coming to fruition.
“We feel privileged to have been on this journey with Redcliffe Dolphins from the beginning and can’t wait to see the stadium in all its glory,” Mr Gardiner said.
“This is certainly a project which deserves recognition for the benefits it is bringing the local community and the region has major bragging rights on having such a facility in their back yard.
“The economic benefit of this stadium is endless – it is a long-term community asset for events within the region and a facility that Redcliffe should be proud.”
Federal LNP MP for Petrie Luke Howarth said once complete the stand would attract more sport and tourism opportunities.
“It’ll be great for locals, families, employment and will also drive economic flow on to our local small business sector,” Mr Howarth said.
Moreton Bay Regional Council Acting Mayor Mike Charlton said council was particularly proud to support women in sport and thrilled this project will create inclusive facilities for everyone to enjoy, including upgraded changes rooms and amenities.
The project is expected to be completed in August this year, in time for the Intrust Super Cup Grand Final, which is scheduled to be held at Dolphin Stadium.
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