Brisbane CBD to be Footy Central for NRL grand final

Brisbane’s CBD is set to be transformed into Footy Central as part of a week-long celebration of the city’s historic NRL Grand Final.

Brisbane’s CBD is set to be transformed into Footy Central as part of a week-long celebration of the city’s historic NRL Grand Final.

King George Square and South Bank have been earmarked as potential live sites with big screens and promotions throughout the week to build excitement in the city ahead of the October 3 blockbuster at Suncorp Stadium.

Officials are anxiously monitoring the latest coronavirus case numbers, with plans likely to be impacted by any worsening situation.

However, they are also keen to build excitement and bring the CBD to life with big screens to show replays of classic grand finals along with other promotions through the entire week.

The game is expected to generate up to $20 million for the Brisbane economy, with data from leading travel company Wotif showing an incredible surge in hotel booking inquiries since Suncorp Stadium was confirmed as host.

South Bank could host a live site during the NRL grand final celebrations. Picture: David Clark

New figures have also revealed that Magic Round generated more than $22 million for the city across three days of footy in May.

Figures compiled by Tourism and Events Queensland reveal Magic Round generated almost 69,500 unique visitors and more than 82,000 hotel night stays, in a major coup for Brisbane.

Deputy Mayor and Civic Cabinet Chair for Economic Development Krista Adams said Magic Round underlined the value of major events.

“Whether its top-class football or boutique festivals, bringing events to Brisbane is a great way to stimulate economic activity,” she said.

“Our tourism and hospitality sectors have done it tough throughout the COVID-19 pandemic so supporting them by bringing events like this to Brisbane is critically important.”

The NRL grand final will provide a major economic boost for Brisbane. Picture: Image/Josh Woning

Cr Adams said the economic results provided a sneak peak into the huge benefits that would come with hosting the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“As we gear up for the world’s biggest sporting event, we will continue to promote Brisbane and its world-class facilities and venues, like the Suncorp Stadium, as a premier sporting destination to host major events,” she said.

Given the historic gravity of Brisbane’s first grand final and its proximity to our next public holiday, the showpiece is expected to generate another massive windfall for Brisbane hotels and hospitality venues.

Hotel booking interest on Wotif.com soared 285 per cent after Suncorp was announced as host of this year’s decider.

There is expected to be a similar surge when tickets officially go on sale to club members on Wednesday and the general public a day later.

Originally published as Brisbane CBD to be Footy Central for NRL grand final