Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie has responded to criticism regarding the construction of the new Brisbane Stadium, which has forced couples to find alternative wedding venues. The construction will transform Victoria Park into a bustling site for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, leaving many soon-to-be-wed couples scrambling for new locations.
The announcement comes as couples planning to marry at the Victoria Park golf and function center learned that it would close when earthworks begin in mid-2026. Bleijie, speaking on the Sunshine Coast, emphasized that the public has been aware of the stadium plans since March of last year, asserting that the development should not have been unexpected.
“It’s been in the public domain for well over a year now that we were building a 63,000-seat stadium at Victoria Park,” Bleijie stated. This follows the 100-day review report, which recommended the stadium and was presented to the state government ten months ago.
Impact on Weddings and Local Businesses
The closure of Victoria Park has left many couples disappointed, as the venue was a popular choice for weddings due to its picturesque setting and central location. With the construction timeline now set, couples are left to navigate the competitive wedding venue market in search of new options.
Bleijie assured that efforts are being made to mitigate the impact on those affected. “We are sensitively working with the landlord and the tenant to ensure that any functions booked there receive their deposits back,” he explained. Additionally, commercial negotiations are underway to provide compensation packages for the tenant, who will cease operations at the venue from mid-year.
Government and Council Collaboration
Meanwhile, the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority, led by chief Simon Crooks, is collaborating with both the state government and Brisbane City Council to facilitate a smooth transition for park tenants. This includes support for workers and ensuring all existing event deposits are refunded.
“It’s important from a health and safety perspective that when the earthworks start, you just can’t have anyone on the site, and that’s, unfortunately, including the business,” Bleijie noted, highlighting the necessity of the venue’s closure.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
The development of the Brisbane Stadium is part of a broader push to enhance the city’s infrastructure ahead of the 2032 Olympics, a move reminiscent of preparations seen in other host cities. Historically, such projects have had mixed impacts on local communities, often spurring economic growth while also causing temporary disruptions.
Experts suggest that while the short-term inconveniences are significant, the long-term benefits could outweigh the immediate challenges. The new stadium is expected to boost tourism and create jobs, providing a lasting legacy for Brisbane.
As the city gears up for the global event, stakeholders remain focused on balancing development with community needs. The situation at Victoria Park serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in large-scale urban projects.
Looking ahead, the state government and local authorities will continue to engage with affected parties to ensure a fair transition. For couples and businesses impacted by the changes, the priority remains finding suitable alternatives and securing necessary compensations.
