- Published:
- Thursday 2 April 2015
The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with the job of transforming Simonds Stadium into a world-class arena suited to staging globally-recognised major events.
The Labor Government has already committed to elevating Kardinia Park to trust status – similar to the MCG – so a landmark redevelopment of the ground can begin.
Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events, John Eren, today joined Chair of the future Simonds Stadium trust and passionate Cats fan, Steve Bracks, to announce the appointment of an architect and project manager to coordinate stage four of the ground’s redevelopment.
Global design giant, Populous, is a world leader in sporting architecture, responsible for state-of-the-art stadium upgrades at Lord’s, Wimbledon and Margaret Court Arena.
RCP returns to Geelong as project manager of the redevelopment after also coordinating the installation of ground lighting in time for the 2012 AFL season.
The ageing Brownlow and Jennings Stands will be demolished, paving the way for a capacity increase to 36,000. This will strengthen bids by Geelong to host a range of major events, including AFL finals.
The Simonds Stadium upgrade comes as the Labor Government embarks on action to ensure the state remains the major events capital of Australia, by commissioning the Victorian Visitor Economy Review.
Major events are a key driver of Victoria’s tourism, the state’s second largest export behind education. It generates 205,000 jobs and delivers more than $19 billion to the economy annually.
Construction will create 90 jobs, and 320 ongoing positions.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events, John Eren
“As a Geelong local and an avid Cats fan, I know Kardinia Park is the heart and soul of sport in our great city. We’re preserving it, upgrading it and making sure it has a bright future.”
“Our upgrade will transform Simonds Stadium into an arena that stands side-by-side with the MCG as one of Australia’s great sporting venues.”
“From the iconic arch at Wembley to the impressive retractable roof over Margaret Court Arena, Populous are behind some of the world’s great sporting infrastructure innovations.”
Quotes attributable to Steve Bracks
“Elevating Simonds Stadium to trust status will ensure that the history and character of this great arena can’t be sold. It secures the future of Kardinia Park.”