These Games will not just be for Brisbane and the Plan recognises the value in Queensland’s regional centres like Cairns to host Olympic events, drive tourism opportunities and support community grassroots sport.
As part of the 2032 Delivery Plan, Cairns is in the box seat for:
- Major upgrades to Barlow Park Stadium including a new grandstand with a permanent seating capacity of 5,000 to support Cairns attracting major event hosting opportunities like football.
- The opportunity for the Cairns Convention Centre to host events.
- The opportunity to host sports including football and cricket.
- Leveraging the 20-year tourism plan for initiatives like Wangetti Trail.
- A share in the $250 million Games On! programs with upgrades to grassroots community clubs.
Premier David Crisafulli stated,
“These Games are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver an infrastructure, tourism and grassroots sports legacy to benefit all of Queensland,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Delivering 2032 and Beyond sets the plan to build much more than what’s needed for a few weeks of competition.
“This is a plan that builds for our future, ensuring regional communities continue to benefit for decades to come.
“That includes delivering critical upgrades to the spine of our transport network, the Bruce Highway, between Cairns and Brisbane.
“Come 2032, through better connectivity and the right infrastructure, Cairns will be ready to open its doors not only to the Games but to more tourists, more employment and more opportunities.”
Bree James, Member for Barron River echoed this notion.
“The 2032 Delivery Plan recognises the tremendous potential of Cairns and our surrounding areas to contribute to the Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy.
The Cairns Convention Centre and venues like Barlow Park will be key players in ensuring our region is ready to welcome the world. These upgrades will not only help us host major events but create lasting benefits for local businesses, sports clubs, and tourism operators.”
I’m excited to see the future unfold and know that this is just the beginning of a bright new chapter for Far North Queensland.”
Terry James, Member for Mulgrave is also fully behind this incredible opportunity for Far North Queensland.
“The 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are not just a Brisbane event—they are a statewide opportunity. Cairns and the broader Far North Queensland region are at the heart of this Games legacy, and we are set to benefit from world-class infrastructure, tourism initiatives, and sporting opportunities.
The upgrades to Barlow Park and critical road infrastructure will strengthen our transport connectivity and allow us to host major events and sports like football and cricket. More importantly, these improvements will create a lasting legacy of growth and opportunity for our local communities.
With the Bruce Highway upgrade and a share in the Games On! programs for grassroots sport, this is about securing the future of Cairns as a major tourism and event hub for generations to come.”
For more information on the Delivering 2032 and Beyond visit www.qld.gov.au/delivering2032
