Queensland Election 2017: LNP promises $15m for boutique stadium for Lions women
THE LNP has pledged $15m for a boutique stadium for Brisbane Lions’ women’s team.
QLD Election
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THE first win of the Brisbane Lions’ AFLW season could come with an LNP victory in Saturday’s election, after the opposition yesterday pledged $15 million towards a new boutique stadium.
The lack of a sustainable home venue was laid bare during the Lions’ inaugural AFLW season when they were denied access to the Gabba to host the grand final and had to take their home game to Metricon Stadium.
That option would be unavailable next season because of the Commonwealth Games.
Brisbane has sought a State Government contribution towards a 10,000-plus capacity boutique stadium that would be part of the proposed $70 million training and administration base for the men’s and women’s teams at Springfield.
Ipswich City Council, Springfield Land Corporation and the AFL have combined to deliver $40 million towards the project, titled “The Reserve”, which would be spent on the training and administration base.
The state funding has been earmarked for creating the playing surface and erecting broadcast-quality lights and a small grandstand.
The Lions also have a commitment from the Federal Government to match any state contribution.
“It’s an opportunity for our women’s team to have state-of-the-art facilities,” Lions CEO Greg Swann said.
Brisbane believes the incumbent Labor Government supports the project but has not received a funding pledge.
Mr Swann said that, with planning already under way, a quick resolution would ensure the facility was fully operational ahead of the 2020 AFLW season, when the competition expanded to 14 teams.
Yesterday shadow treasurer Scott Emmerson announced the LNP’s support for the project.
“We know that women’s sport is growing at rapid levels across Australia and we need to do more to encourage grassroots participation and elite competition at the highest levels,” he said.
“We also see a huge potential in sports tourism and opportunities to attract major international and domestic sporting events to Queensland.
“With our great weather and lifestyle, Queensland is uniquely placed to claim the title as the women’s sporting capital of Australia.’’
Originally published as Queensland Election 2017: LNP promises $15m for boutique stadium for Lions women
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