AFL stadium on Mac Point worth a good look
Townsville’s new 25,000-seat CBD stadium was a game-changer for that (much smaller) city and has led to an inner-city boom. Imagine the possibilities in Hobart, writes editor Craig Warhurst.
Opinion
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There has been a lot of push back on state government and AFL plans to build a multipurpose stadium on the waterfront in Hobart.
Whether it be Regatta Point or Macquarie Point, a long list of people have stood up to pan the idea.
That said, there has also been a long list of people supportive of the move, saying it will reinvigorate the sport and the CBD.
The latest detractor is former Mac Point chief executive Mary Massina who after a long spiel on the history of her time overseeing the site says she thinks Tasmanians are being sold a pup. It’s a story I have heard before.
Formerly being editor of the Townsville Bulletin, I was lucky enough to be there when Townsville’s new 25,000-seat CBD stadium was opened.
It was a game-changer for that city and has led to an inner-city boom and renewed pride in the town.
The funny thing is the debate happening in Hobart now was the same debate held in North Queensland when the stadium idea was first mooted.
Complaints were almost mirror images of the ones doing the rounds right now.
“We already have a stadium” (it was in the suburbs too), “it’s a waste of money and should be spent on health and the homeless”, “it will be a white elephant”, “it will ruin a site that could be parkland”, “the city doesn’t need it” and on and on.
Another similarity was that politicians against the move were standing up desperately trying to take political advantage of the situation by fanning the flames of discontent.
But through all the bun-fighting, the Townsville stadium got the green light.
It was jointly funded by state, federal and local government opening just before the start of the pandemic in 2020.
Surprisingly, many of the people who campaigned so vigorously against the move turned up for the opening to celebrate, some even stood for photos for the waiting press to document the moment.
Now nearly three years on, where are the detractors?
Most are now supporters realising the development has done amazing things for the city.
Ask any politician in North Queensland, be it Labor, LNP, Katter Party or Green not one would say the stadium isn’t a success.
It has been host to international soccer, rugby, sevens, NRL, the State of Origin and even international boxing.
And in the arts numerous events, balls, conferences and concerts including legends like Elton John.
It’s also created a domino effect in reinvigorating the once-deteriorating Townsville city heart, with multimillion-dollar upgrades to existing hotels, new restaurants and accommodation and walkway upgrades within walking distance to the new stadium.
Now this is a regional city of just under 200,000 people.
Imagine what could be done in Hobart, a state capital with a round, roofed stadium – so much more.
Hobart and Tasmania needs to think big and back itself on these state building projects.
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