Brisbane proves Pietersen wrong as British fans pour millions into local economy
A decade after Kevin Pietersen’s scathing attack on Brisbane, thousands of British cricket fans have delivered the ultimate comeback.
Former Ashes antagonist Kevin Pietersen famously called it boring, but on the eve of a historic day-night Test at the Gabba, Poms can’t get enough of Brisbane.
During an Ashes visit over a decade ago, Pietersen, the South African-born middle order batter, said he would rather watch paint dry than hang out in Brisbane, but data from Tourism and Events Queensland reveals British tourists have since fallen in love with our fair capital.
While Pietersen’s bitter comments – perhaps inspired by regular Gabba thrashings at the hands of the Aussies – sparked a war of words with The Courier-Mail, a new generation of British travellers are voting for Brisbane with their feet, and wallets.
In the year to June, almost 140,000 Brits visited Brisbane, almost double the number that visited the next most popular Queensland destinations of the Sunshine Coast and the state’s far north (both 74,000).
The presence of thousands more British travellers for this week’s Second Test is set to create a $35m juggernaut for the Brisbane economy, with many more taking to regional Queensland before and after the game to spread the love – and some of their enviously strong Pommy pounds.
The Barmy Army will arrive in Brisbane in force on Wednesday with an official match-eve party, but after the two-day disaster of the Perth Test last week, many have already arrived in Queensland.
Barmy Army supporters have been offered the choice of dozens of activities while in Brisbane, ranging from day trips to beautiful Tangalooma to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and climbs of the iconic Story Bridge.
Relaxing cruises and more energetic kayak adventures on the mighty Brisbane River have also been offered as well as some day and overnight trips further afield to places including K’gari, Bribie Island and the Gold Coast.
On the Sunshine Coast, Croc Tours operator Richard Barnett has noticed a steady stream of Poms in recent days on his “Be Aussie for a Day” tour featuring such quintessential Queenslander experiences as refreshing XXXX beers and prawns at the Mooloolaba surf club.
He said the influx of Brits was very welcome at what was traditionally a quiet time of year.
“It’s been fantastic having them here,” he said.
“Normally at this time of year everyone is getting ready for Christmas and it’s a bit quiet, so this has been great.
“We’ve had a few on our tours already and on Wednesday we have got about 120 going to Australia Zoo.”
One of the Brits devouring prawns and beers was Barmy Army fanatic Mike Salmon, a veteran of seven overseas trips with the famous supporters’ group, but on his first visit Down Under.
He said he couldn’t wait to get out and about in Brisbane over the coming days.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the Gabba from the inside instead of just on television, but it will also be great to see some of the sights of Brisbane as well,” he said.
The Test starts on Thursday with the first three days already sold out.
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Originally published as Brisbane proves Pietersen wrong as British fans pour millions into local economy
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