The impact of reducing the capacity of QSAC in Brisbane, potentially to use it as the city’s Olympic stadium, could result in decreased revenue from ticket sales. This decision, made in response to the Quirk review, will require further analysis to understand its effects on the overall Olympic budget. Brisbane 2032 chairman Andrew Liveris stressed the importance of assessing the ramifications on the master plan and reporting back to the IOC and IPC. IOC co-ordination commission chair Kirsty Coventry emphasized that the Olympics would adapt to the venues chosen by Queensland, and expects changes as the Games draw closer.
There have been indications of disagreements between the three levels of government since the recent venues reset. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner supported his predecessor Quirk’s Victoria Park recommendation, while federal Sport Minister Anika Wells emphasized that the QSAC decision was the responsibility of the Queensland government. Responding to criticism of the Queensland government’s ability to deliver the Games, Wells acknowledged the feedback but expressed confidence in the decisions being made. Brisbane 2032 chairman Liveris indicated that physical signs of Olympic preparations would soon be visible in southeast Queensland, with work on initial decisions slated to begin this year.
Liveris stated that the commencement of some early and uncontested decisions, such as tenders and procurement, would mark the beginning of Olympic preparations in Queensland. These tangible signs of progress are expected to engage the local community and build excitement for the upcoming Games. The IOC Brisbane 2032 co-ordination commission meeting coincided with the launch of the Australian swimming team’s new Speedo kit in Brisbane. Olympic champion Ariarne Titmus emphasized the importance of fully committing to the Games and ensuring that decisions are made with the best interests of athletes and the country in mind.
Liveris mentioned that tangible preparations for the Olympics would begin this year, signaling the start of the actual work towards the Games. The initial steps, such as procurement and ground-breaking, will provide a visual representation of the progress being made towards hosting the event. The meeting of the IOC Brisbane 2032 co-ordination commission highlighted the ongoing collaboration between various stakeholders to ensure the success of the Games. Olympic champion Ariarne Titmus reiterated the importance of giving the Games their full attention and making decisions that prioritize the best interests of athletes, the local community, and the country as a whole.
