Burke proposed using the Metro to improve transportation options for the 13,000 students at Griffith University, support the Games, and benefit the public by enhancing public transport options for the QEII Jubilee Hospital. The Metro, capable of carrying 170 people at a time with services every 15 minutes, would provide a more convenient warm-up track for Games competitors at QSAC, next to the stadium. While this would require converting existing carparks to Metro stations, it is expected to reduce the number of cars in the area. The closest bus transit hub is currently 3 km away, while the closest rail station is 2 km away.
State Development Minister Grace Grace emphasized that all options would be considered to ensure the success of the Games and provide a lasting legacy for the community. This includes exploring legacy transport options between QSAC, the QEII Hospital, Griffith University, and connected precincts in the city. A business case for the QSAC upgrade and broader works is currently underway and will involve extensive consultation with stakeholders. Griffith University’s Vice Chancellor Carolyn Evans highlighted the lack of adequate public transport options for the campus, QSAC, and the hospital, emphasizing the importance of a well-connected precinct for the community to engage with the tertiary institution, hospital services, and sporting facilities.
Cindy Hook, the chief executive of the Brisbane Organising Committee, visited QSAC with her staff and welcomed the Metro proposal while stating that all good ideas are encouraged. The walkway between Griffith University and QSAC would need to be widened to accommodate the Metro, with only a small number of trees needing to be removed for this purpose. Despite concerns about the surrounding koala habitat, Burke assured that the impact on the habitat would be minimal and that the proposed Metro station at QSAC would benefit the community.
The Metro, a $1.8 billion initiative from Schrinner’s LNP council, is set to commence services later this year with plans for expansion in the future. Victoria Park, which would have had a nearby Metro station, will utilize the Ekka train station, while the Gabba, which is now set to be refurbished rather than rebuilt, will have new Cross River Rail and Metro stations across the road. The proposed Metro stations at various locations in Brisbane aim to improve public transport options, support major events like the Games, and enhance connectivity within the city. Burke’s proposal to utilize the Metro for the benefit of the Griffith University campus, QSAC, and the hospital shows a commitment to improving transportation infrastructure in the area and leaving a lasting legacy for the community.
