Cairns stadium targets major sports events thanks to major investment

Cairns’ Barlow Park has received A$10.9m (£5.5m/€6.6m) worth of upgrades from the Queensland Government in a bid to secure more professional sporting events.

The work includes new broadcast quality lighting and a big screen replay scoreboard which is claimed will allow the venue to host more high-profile events.

With the upgrades, it is aiming to stage NRL, Super Rugby and A-League football matches in the hopes of bolstering the region’s reputation as a sporting destination. The venue has a capacity for 16,700 people, mostly standing, including a 1,700-seat grandstand.

The upgrades have also been made with Brisbane’s hosting of the 2032 Olympic Games in mind, despite the two cities being 1,889km apart.

“Barlow Park is the beating heart of sport in Cairns, and these upgrades ensure it remains a first-class venue that can attract top-level sporting content,” said Queensland’s sports minister Tim Mander. 

“The lighting upgrades will not only ensure it is an even better facility for the community to use, but that Barlow Park can host televised professional sporting content with broadcast standard lighting. 

“The experience for fans will have a flow-on effect, encouraging and inspiring greater participation in sport within the community while boosting local businesses, creating jobs, and delivering a real economic return for the region.

“The Crisafulli Government is committed to ensuring all Queenslanders have access to world-class sporting facilities and opportunities, backing communities with the infrastructure they deserve.”

Since 2008, Barlow Park has been the home ground for the Northern Pride rugby league team which plays in the state competition Queensland Cup.

“This upgrade is a game-changer for sports tourism and events in Cairns, boosting the city’s ability to host elite level matches, entertainment, and community events for years to come,” said Cairns Mayor Amy Eden. 

“They are also part of a broader project to upgrade this facility ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games, where it has been earmarked to host football (soccer) preliminary group games.”