Ipswich could play host to some of the world’s best athletes as part of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, after it was included as a host city in the Brisbane 2032 proposal.
The under-construction Brisbane Lions’ training and support centre at Springfield is currently being considered as the venue for the football preliminaries and modern pentathlon in the 2032 Games.
Mayor Teresa Harding said the Brisbane 2032 proposal provides a fantastic opportunity to highlight Ipswich’s growth story.
“Ipswich’s population is projected to almost double to 435,000 residents over the next ten years and we are set to welcome an additional 330,000 community members to 2041,” Mayor Harding said.
“The city’s inclusion in the 2032 proposal could act as a catalyst for the delivery of key infrastructure across Ipswich that would benefit the city and its booming population well beyond the 2032 Games.”
Consideration of the Springfield facility’s role in the 2032 Games comes after Mayor Harding raised the city’s priority infrastructure projects as part of a March delegation to Canberra.
“Council is committed to building collaborative partnerships with all levels of government, and we are seeking federal support in the delivery of city-shaping infrastructure that will drive the economic recovery and safeguard quality of life for our residents,” Mayor Harding said.
“The 2021-22 federal budget provides an opportunity for the Australian Government to lead investment in major infrastructure, ensure connectivity in nationally significant growth and freight corridors, and catalyse economic development in Ipswich.”
Mayor Harding said there was potential for more Ipswich venues to be considered as part of the proposal, as the city continues to grow and the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games master plan develops.
“Ipswich is a city with a very strong sporting history, and we will be advocating for an array of opportunities to be considered as the master plan develops in the coming decade,” Mayor Harding said.
“North Ipswich Reserve Stadium has the potential to play an important role as both a venue and training facility in the lead up to the 2032 Games.”
Ipswich City Council is expected to formally decide on its commitment to the 2032 Games proposal at a special meeting to be held in April.
Image: The North Ipswich Reserve Sports and Entertainment Precinct has the potential to play a key role in the 2032 Games.
PIPE DREAM, no country in history has profited from an Olympic Games, most have lost Billions.