Brisbane Showgrounds will be upgraded to deliver a 20,000-seat alternative home for the AFL and crickets.
The decision comes after careful consideration and evaluation of various venues across the region.
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The proposed $137 million upgrade encompasses a permanent seating bowl below a temporary grandstand at Machinery Hill, aiming to create a lasting community legacy that unites the city and country during events like the EKKA.
Sports Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Palaszczuk Government has worked closely with cricket and the AFL to build the best alternative venue for teams, as The Gabba is out of action.
“Upgrading the RNA Main Arena means keeping the big games in Brisbane and supporting the visitor economy while delivering an EKKA legacy for uniting the city and country,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“I want to thank the Lord Mayor for his public backing of an upgrade to the historic Main Arena at the RNA Showgrounds to retain the economic benefits of sport and jobs here in Brisbane,” he said.
“Most Queenslanders acknowledge cricket and the AFL will need somewhere to play during The Gabba redevelopment.”
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