The Chandler Sports Precinct in Brisbane is set to undergo significant upgrades as part of the $1.87 billion minor venues program funded by the federal and state governments. These upgrades will include the construction of a new indoor sports hall, improvements to the existing Brisbane Aquatic Centre, general precinct enhancements, and better connectivity between buildings. The project has already attracted interest from over 70 businesses, with tenders for the work already out in the market. The upgrades are expected to create 210 jobs during construction and will help reinforce Chandler’s status as Queensland’s premier multi-sports hub for both community and elite-level sports.
State Development and Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace emphasized the significance of the upcoming improvements at Chandler, highlighting the importance of delivering sports facilities well in advance of the international guests arriving for the Games. Work at the aquatic centre will involve various enhancements, including seat replacement, external cladding, acoustic ceiling and insulation installation, roof remediation, and improvements to lighting and public announcement systems. These upgrades are aimed at ensuring the continuation of swimming’s 45-year history at the venue and providing a world-class facility for athletes to train and compete.
Swimming Queensland chief executive Kevin Hasemann praised the planned improvements at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, emphasizing the venue’s crucial role in shaping the success of Queensland swimmers on the international stage. He pointed out the impressive track record of Queensland swimmers, with 39 athletes winning a total of 55 Olympic gold medals since the 2000 Sydney Olympics. These achievements highlight the importance of providing top-notch facilities and support for athletes to excel in their sport. The upgrades at Chandler will not only benefit the elite athletes but also serve the broader community by offering improved access and amenities for all.
As part of the preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, almost half of the minor venues are expected to be out to the market by the end of 2024. The Chandler upgrades are scheduled to commence in 2025 and be completed by 2027, five years before the Games. The Australian Swimming Trials, serving as the qualifier for the Dolphins team to compete at Paris 2024, will be hosted at Chandler between June 10 and 15. This event will provide an opportunity for athletes to showcase their abilities and secure their spot in the prestigious international competition, further highlighting the importance of having world-class facilities like the Brisbane Aquatic Centre at Chandler Sports Precinct.
Overall, the planned upgrades at Chandler Sports Precinct in Brisbane signify a significant investment in enhancing the sporting infrastructure and facilities in preparation for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. The improvements, funded by the federal and state governments, will not only benefit elite athletes but also the local community by providing access to state-of-the-art sports amenities. The project is expected to create job opportunities during construction and help establish Chandler as Queensland’s premier multi-sports hub. With a focus on delivering top-notch facilities well in advance of the Games, the Chandler upgrades underscore the commitment to hosting a successful and memorable event in 2032.
