With Queensland’s incoming LNP government now officially sworn in and undertaking a 100-day review of Brisbane’s Olympic stadium options, the focus has shifted back to viable urban sites following the anticipated shelving of the previous government’s flawed QSAC proposal in Nathan.
Now, the city’s best options include Northshore Hamilton, Victoria Park, and a redevelopment of The Gabba. Among these however, Northshore Hamilton stands out as the most compelling choice, not only for its riverfront location and existing state-owned land but also for its cost-effective approach that avoids the logistical challenges associated with moving major sports teams.
A Strategic Transit Solution with Long-Term Benefits
The potential to extend the Doomben rail line to Northshore Hamilton provides a scalable transit solution that would meet Olympic demands while leaving a lasting improvement for local residents. Upgrading this rail line would create efficient connectivity to Brisbane’s northern areas and the CBD, benefiting not only Olympic attendees but also future residents of Northshore Hamilton.
By contrast, while The Gabba has an established transport network, redeveloping the site for Olympic use would require extensive upgrades and roadworks, potentially disrupting surrounding neighbourhoods. Victoria Park, though centrally located, is highly contentious with locals and further risks the Olympics carrying a negative perception, something that Northshore would solve instantly. An upgraded Doomben line and extension to Northshore aligns with Brisbane’s urban growth strategies, with benefits extending beyond the Games for Brisbane’s growing population and reducing congestion in the long term.
Avoiding Major Relocations: A Cost-Saving Measure
Choosing Northshore Hamilton also circumvents the need to displace two major Queensland sports organisations: the Brisbane Lions and Queensland Cricket. The Gabba is currently home to both of these teams, and redeveloping it into an Olympic venue would mean temporarily relocating both organisations, which would lead to additional costs and logistical complications. The Lions’ stadium and Queensland Cricket facilities would need suitable interim locations during construction, a costly endeavour that would only add to the financial burden of redeveloping The Gabba.
By selecting Northshore Hamilton, the government can save on these relocation expenses. The ex-industrial, state-owned land at Northshore Hamilton offers a fresh start without disrupting existing sporting venues, which makes it the more cost-effective option. This approach ensures that funding is directed towards creating a state-of-the-art Olympic venue rather than dealing with relocation logistics, providing the city with better value for its investment.
An Iconic Riverfront Location with Global Appeal
Northshore Hamilton’s riverside setting presents a unique and iconic backdrop for Brisbane’s Olympic Games. Supported by the Brisbane Design Alliance’s recent Northshore Vision 2050 proposal, this site would transform into an internationally recognised waterfront precinct, creating a visually stunning destination. The riverfront setting not only adds aesthetic appeal but also enhances Brisbane’s reputation for innovative city design. The Brisbane Design Alliance envisions a landmark Olympic precinct that embraces sustainable urban planning and maximises the riverfront environment, making it a future focal point for the city.
Victoria Park and The Gabba, while both potential options, do not offer the same visual or developmental impact. Northshore Hamilton’s transformation would highlight Brisbane’s progressive approach to urban development, creating a precinct that would remain valuable long after the Olympic Games.
Utilising State-Owned Land: A Cost-Effective Solution
Northshore Hamilton’s state-owned, flat, and ex-industrial land gives Brisbane a cost-effective option for Olympic development. Unlike The Gabba, which would require extensive retrofitting and residential impact, or Victoria Park, where using green space would lead to public resistance, Northshore’s land status eliminates the need for earthworks and costly demolition of existing structures. Transforming Northshore aligns with Brisbane’s urban renewal goals and preserves cherished community areas like Victoria Park.
This approach if taken by the LNP government’s 100-day review would balance Olympic infrastructure needs with community interests and cost-efficiency. Northshore Hamilton’s unique blend of available land and riverside appeal makes it a smart investment for Brisbane’s future.
Legacy Planning: A Vision for Brisbane’s Future
Where Northshore Hamilton truly excels is in its comprehensive legacy planning, thanks to the Northshore Vision 2050. This long-term blueprint aims to create a dynamic, self-sustaining community featuring residential areas, commercial hubs, and public amenities. The Doomben rail extension would benefit future Northshore Hamilton residents, integrating the precinct into Brisbane’s transport network. Northshore’s sustainability-focused design includes green energy, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and car-free zones, ensuring that the Olympic precinct serves the city’s needs long after the Games.
The Gabba, in contrast, would likely revert to primarily a sports venue post-Olympics, limiting its broader community impact. Similarly, developing Victoria Park would require significant changes to the landscape, detracting from its public value as a recreational area. Northshore Hamilton’s legacy plan offers a clear vision for a connected, environmentally conscious precinct, contributing to Brisbane’s sustainable growth.
Economic Growth and Community Development
Northshore Hamilton’s development offers Brisbane the opportunity for a substantial economic boost. The Games would catalyse Northshore’s evolution into a vibrant riverside precinct, stimulating investment in hospitality, retail, and real estate that would benefit the local economy long after the Olympics. The Northshore Vision 2050 envisions a balanced mix of residential, commercial, and public amenities, offering future residents a lively, self-sufficient community.
The Gabba’s surrounding neighbourhoods and Victoria Park’s parkland restrict post-Games economic expansion. Northshore Hamilton’s location, development potential, and state-owned status make it a promising choice for sustainable economic growth, supporting Brisbane’s evolving identity and contributing to the city’s long-term prosperity.
Respecting Brisbane’s Green Spaces
Northshore Hamilton’s ex-industrial site offers an ideal solution for Olympic needs without compromising Brisbane’s cherished green spaces, one that Brisbane’s own LNP Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner wants to see protected. Victoria Park, which has now become a treasured green area, is one of the city’s most valued parks, and redeveloping it for Olympic use could face significant public opposition. Choosing Northshore Hamilton instead aligns with the Brisbane Design Alliance’s proposal, which integrates greenery and public spaces, supporting Brisbane’s goals of sustainable urban growth.
The decision to use Northshore Hamilton would showcase Brisbane’s commitment to responsible development, focusing on urban renewal while preserving established green areas.
A Future-Ready Choice for Brisbane’s Olympic Legacy
The choice between Northshore Hamilton, Victoria Park, and The Gabba highlights different approaches to Brisbane’s future as an Olympic city. With the LNP government’s renewed focus on practical, sustainable options, Northshore Hamilton stands out for its riverfront appeal, state-owned land, transit potential, and minimal impact on existing facilities. By saving relocation costs for the Lions and Queensland Cricket, Northshore provides a cost-efficient and future-oriented solution for the Olympic Games.
As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympics, choosing Northshore Hamilton would solidify the city’s vision for sustainable growth, enhanced infrastructure, and long-term community impact. With the Brisbane Design Alliance’s support and an iconic riverside setting, Northshore Hamilton promises a lasting legacy that respects Brisbane’s values, enriching the cityscape for future generations.
Couldn’t agree more and let’s hope the new QLD Premier and whoever is doing a new 100-day review can cake note of this one as the proposed Brisbane Olympic Stadium site for 2032.