The Gold Coast has teased what it hopes the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will deliver for the south-east Queensland city.
Without going into specific detail “out of respect to the review authority”, Mayor Tom Tate said the City’s formal submission to the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) stressed the need for better connectivity, economic development and world-wide recognition for the region.
“I cannot outline specific detail, however, it is imperative we build infrastructure that leaves a lasting legacy for all Queenslanders,” Mayor Tate said.
“Temporary venues, other than for things like road races and triathlons, should only be contemplated when a permanent venue has a significant establishment cost and no meaningful long-term benefit to our community.”
He said if we could create or improve critical community infrastructure we should use this opportunity.
“We should also look to Paris organisers who understood that when temporary venues were necessary – like their beach volleyball stadium at the foot of the Eiffel Tower – their value was in promoting iconic landmarks on the world stage.
“Getting the mix right is crucial.”
Mayor Tate said without community goodwill, the Games would not be a success and building that goodwill started with the public submissions, which close this Friday.
“Success will be measured by building an engaged and responsive community. If we fail to deliver in that regard, no gold medals or world records will be enough to convince Australians that their investment in the Games was a sound decision.”
He said the basis of the Gold Coast submission was:
- Accelerating critical transport and digital infrastructure for the region.
- Delivering a cost-effective Games that boosted jobs and economic growth.
- Positioning the region as a global destination for tourism, trade and investment.
“Our latest submission strongly backs the International Olympic Committee (IOC) new norm plan and Olympic Agenda 2020+5,” he said.
“New norm initiatives should include venue optimisation, alternative transport options, and reuse of field of play and back of house operations.
“This requires ‘outside the box’ thinking that is both bold and achievable. Paris 2024 showed the world that the event can be delivered differently.”
