New Cowboys stadium priority for North Queensland CEO Greg Tonner

NEW North Queensland CEO Greg Tonner says that getting a new stadium built for the Cowboys is one of his top priorities.

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NEW North Queensland chief executive Greg Tonner says getting a multi-million dollar new stadium built for the Cowboys is one of his main priorities.

Tonner officially began in the CEO’s position this week after his appointment earlier in the year.

As well as saying he intends to grow the NRL club’s profile throughout the state and nation, Tonner says securing funding for the proposed new stadium is another vital part of the Cowboys future.

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Tonner says the Cowboys are aiming to build a new stadium.

The Queensland Labor government has pledged $100 million towards the new stadium in the heart of Townsville’s CBD but admits it may have to scale back that investment if the federal government refuses to also chip in.

In March, the NRL said it would consider investment into the stadium and possibly taking up stadium management rights.

Tonner remains optimistic a deal can be struck.

“To have a modern stadium in North Queensland and what that can generate for events for the community and what we can showcase is great,” he told reporters.

“What I’ll start to do is get into all the aspects, elements and people behind it. Find out what everyone else thinks ... but definitely a new stadium, close to the city, what a great idea. “All governments are trying to be fair to everybody. We need to work with them to convince them that investing in us is the right thing for the state and the country. As we get into it, I’ll be doing my best, with the other stakeholders, to take that message.”

Originally published as New Cowboys stadium priority for North Queensland CEO Greg Tonner