The Gabba Demolition and Rebuild is DEAD | Talking Tactics with Mel Pikos

The Gabba redevelopment is dead! Or at least that seems to be the case based on recent comments from John Coates, Andrew Liveris, Adrian Schrinner and Amy McMahon. With a staggering price tag and growing opposition, the fate of the Gabba hangs in the balance.
From the initial plans to add 8000 seats to the stadium, costing $2.7 billion, to the subsequent backlash and resignations, the future of the Gabba as the host venue for the opening and closing ceremonies and athletics competition remains uncertain. We'll explore the factors that led to this uncertainty, including a review by former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk and recent statements from key figures like John Coates.
Discover the alternative venues being considered, including Suncorp Stadium in Milton, Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, Albion, and a unique proposal for a new super stadium above Cross River Rail Woolloongabba. Mel Pikos also explores longshot options and addresses the challenges each alternative venue presents.
Do you believe the Gabba rebuild is truly dead, and where do you think the opening and closing ceremonies of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics should take place? Let us know in the comment section down below.
Today we’re talking tactics.
#thegabba #brisbane2032 #olympicgames
00:00 Introduction
00:33 The Gabba's Olympic History
01:35 John Coates Says It Doesn't Stack Up
2:33 Alternative Venues
02:42 Suncorp Stadium
03:21 QSAC, Nathan
04:08 Albion Park Raceway
04:49 A Second Gabba Stadium
5:26 A Few Less Likely Possibilities
06:34 What Do You Think?
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[@daveb3987]

Sydney set the gold standard. Brisbane has to decide if they’re a real city or not.

[@JamesFFiT]

Even if you upgrade QSAC at Nathan you still need to build an underground rail line across from the Marooka area to allow for heavy rail for mass transport.

[@JamesFFiT]

I think Albion is also good if they build an underground subway extension from exhibition station across to there somehow and call it Olympic park (Albion East), it could then go out to Hamilton and Hamilton north shore stations where the athletes village will be and then swing back to connect with Doomben line going inbound to the city operating in a kind of figure 8 loop but it wouldn’t have to solely be that way. Trains could depart from northshore to the city too and be at the Olympic stadium in 5 mins. It needs heavy rail if you are building a new stadium at Albion Park. From Hamilton North shore it could even go across to the airport (above ground) and link up with the current end of the airport line at the domestic terminal would be even better connectivity!

[@jamessteely]

Thanks Mel! I think Albion or a Stadium adjacent to existing Gabba are the best options.

[@melpikos8533]

Glad you agree, James!

[@TOTN17]

Albion Park Raceway is prone to flooding.

[@aalan4296]

Add a higher third tier to the Gabba on the Main Street side making it three tiers and incorporate the facilities into the new stand. It should be enough to get the capacity upto 50,000. Look at what Liverpool Football club did at Anfield recently increasing capacity and they still kept playing there. If money allows put Stanley Street and Vulture Street into tunnels similar to Nundah and have the former street area as circulating space. It also saves demolishing the school.

[@PjRjHj]

They've long gone through all that and the information is freely available why they can't use the current Gabba, nor expand it in its current form.

[@MaxS-hn8we]

How embarrassing can we get

[@woodvineandco]

Great news. I like Albion, because I feel like the area is already a nice area. I think the stadium should be in an area that really shows of the city in its coverage events at the stadium.

[@benjarongprojects]

There is zero chance of a new stadium over the Wooloongabba rail station. Zero. It's physically not possible to simply plonk a STADIUM over an existing rail station without very, very major changes to the planning of the station, without completely changing the structure, MEP services already in place. To do it now would, apart from being significantly more expensive than a greenfield or even brownfield stadium, would cause major delays to the rail station itself. his is an utterly impractical idea. Maybe Albion or Nathan, and just bite the bullet on the need for an expedited (and therefore expensive) train line. Suncorp is unrealistic for either Opening/Closing ceremonies or for Athletics. There just isn't sufficient room around them for athlete facilities or for moving the numbers of people full on for 18 hours a day for weeks.

[@rodneyblackwell7477]

I used to watch the Olympics but now I realise it is for the benefit of politicians, sports administrators and global elites.

[@JaydenWilliams-my1br]

Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony is being held on the Seine. Brisbane's opening and closing ceremonies should be held on the Brisbane river between North Quay and ends at Captain Cook Bridge, temporary seat stands on Queens Wharf arc building for world leaders and dignitaries, along with temporary stands on Riverside expressway and at Southbank.

[@MrRmano13]

Nice do they all go on city cats?

[@bleeper999]

Why can't they hold the opening and closing ceremonies in more than one location? It is primarily a television event, except for those lucky enough to get tickets If you spread the ceremony across The Gabba and an upgraded Nathan Stadium lots more tickets can be sold and from a television perspective it makes for a truly unique opportunity to present something new in three large studios simultaneously. This also spreads the load on transport infrastructure. Importantly it allows for minimal upgrades to two or more existing arena's for thousands more seats

[@TOTN17]

QSAC public transport wise is only accessible by bus and even then there aren't that many not to mention most of the stands are temporary and have not been used since the Broncos played there

[@Imagineering100]

Mel you are very good at explaining the problem I hope there is a solution that does not cost billions and billions. Or just cancel the Olympics'.

[@melpikos8533]

Thanks Imagine, hopefully we don’t cancel the games, I’d like to see a great long term infrastructure legacy. It’s not too late!

[@Bucknasfri70]

Build a massive stadium at the brisbane airport. That land that was supposed to be the auto market is empty.

[@JamesFFiT]

Good idea it would need new stations at DFO and Olympic park and the Govt would have to sort out that issue with taking back the privatised line from Airtrain early like they were discussing a few months ago.

[@MrRmano13]

It would be a super expensive stadium to build it would have to be partly underground and the lighting would all have to be internal so it didn't affect the airport. No chance they build it there.

[@geraldselvey7687]

Instead of demolishing and rebuilding why not a simple revamp similar to what is happening at the WACA in Perth

[@PjRjHj]

Apples and Oranges. The WACA structure was god awful, and its revamp is a downsize to 10000. It's basically a glorified regional facility. Far from the standard Brisbane needs to provide

[@rmar127]

Gabba 2.0 would get my vote. Though that would mean that Stanley and vulture streets would have to go underground to make room. The added advantage of this would be that after the demolition of the existing Gabba, instead of being destroyed, east Brisbane state school would have room to expand. Sure, it’d have to be closed temporarily during the deconstruction. However this is a much better option than it closing permanently.

[@tony41231]

The only option is to either build a new stadium next to the Gabba & then knock down the Gabba (if that is feasible) or rebuild the Gabba. Spending large sums on upgrading QSAC is a terrible idea. It already is white elephant from 1982 Commonwealth Games & spending large sums to upgrade it is absurd. Building a new stadium at Albion Park Raceway might be an option but the stadium would become a white elephant too unless it replaces the Gabba as the Brisbane home of AFL & cricket. The simple fact is an Athletics venue with capacity for over 20,000 (let alone over 50,000) is going to be a white elephant because hardly anyone will go to Athletics events outside the Olympics.

[@douglachman7330]

Perths new stadium including transport infrastructure sets the standard. Back in time for the Sydney Olympics was a gold standard. Dont waste time and valuable funds on a political statement.

[@Matt_JJz]

I think the capacity added with the proposal just isn't worth it, all tho a revamp should be considered. The area around the stadium for example should also be greatly upgraded, as right now there is just oversized roads and houses around it. It should be turned into a lively precinct with shops and apartments, as well pedestrianization of the area. To add more economic opportunities and experiences for not just the Olympics, but also the average Brisbanite.

[@JaydenWilliams-my1br]

*Brisbaner not Brisbanite. Brisbanite is a southern term, and drops the e from Brisbane. Brisbaner makes more sense, like Londoner or New Yorker.

[@PjRjHj]

It's far more than just a capacity boost

[@electro_sykes]

build an Elevated Spur line between Salisbury & Qsac, and then also build a spur to the Busway for Brisbane Metro. Upgrade and Expand Qsac and build a major parking lot near Griffith University, that connects directly to the Pacific Motorway. And also run the existing Basketball shuttle buses between QSAC and Garden City.

[@matt23396]

Above Cross river rail or Albion. surely not QSAC!

[@BronzeYohn_Noiyce]

Thanks Mel! I think the best option would be your suggestion to build on top of the Woolloongabba station. If they went with the Albion option what do you think the transport solution would be? I think the existing Albion station is too far from the site to be used.

[@RichardLloyd-eu9cd]

Hey Mel, how great would Gabba 2.0 be? Just one problem, & it’s a biggie: just like the current Gabba site, you simply can’t fit an Olympic stadium on it (at least not without doing something dramatic to Vulture &/or Stanley Streets, accompanied by MASSIVE cost & disruption, neither of which you could justify inflicting on the public) If the ‘legacy’ is a stadium that can be used by major sports, concerts & other activities, it’s hard to go past Albion I believe. QSAC too far out from the CBD, & other than the Goodwill Games it’s never been fully utilised as a stadium since Lang Park was done. Great facility for athletics training & GPS athletics. Love the enthusiasm though.

[@melpikos8533]

Thanks Richard!

[@EvolvedBonobo]

You have excellent videos! Good on ya, mate!

[@melpikos8533]

Appreciate the kind words!

[@imadatallah45]

Nathan is good or build new stadium in Logan

[@fernandofresneda4602]

Totally agree with you. Build a totally new super stadium at Woolloongabba. Let the Lions and the Heat continue to play at the Gabba and obtain revenue from their games. I don't like the Suncorp idea. Too congested around there and I've always thought that the stadium at Nathan should be upgraded and used more often. Very much underutilised. I think the games will be great for Brisbane (as a proud Queenslander living in Sydney for now) and the city has many options to look at before throwing in the towel and deciding not to host the games as I do realise that no city in the past has ever made a profit from hosting the games (apart from Los Angeles if I remember correctly). Anyhow, time for Brisbane to put on its big boy pants and become a more international city.

[@theokleoudis4967]

The opening and closing ceremony traditionally uses an oval track that suncorp does not have. QSAC at Nathan currently has 48000 seats but during the commonwealth games it seated much more. Still think QSAC with its warm up track , nissan arena attached and more space to grow is ideal. Only 10 clicks from the city and plenty of shops and restaurants around. Transport is an issue so may be shuttle buses to and from venue would help place a dedicated olmouc lane for a few week as mahir roads surrounding d QSAC. traffic will be an issue no matter whete you go. In this way we are using an existing venue that just needs a big upgrade but cheaper than the gabba rebuild. Isn' t thus supposed to be the new olympic model we work by now.?

[@electro_sykes]

no what we do is build a new spur line that trains can use. It would branch off from Salisbury to Mt Gravatt Metro Station via Qsac.

[@derektrusler2297]

For my money, Suncorp Stadium for the opening and closing ceremony to show off Brisbane City centre and vibrancy. Then use the former QE2 stadium now QSAC with an upgrade of athletes facilities with the critically important warming up track and facilities. Potentially house some of the athletes and officials in nearby accommodation which could be accessible along the busway. Use the South East Busway and the Busway network which can provide a capacity of over 25,000 pax per hour peak direction using new 170 seat metro vehicles at high frequencies. Access for construction can be via Kessels Road from industrial manufacturers producing what's needed for the Games infrastructure, minimising the effect on inner city traffic congestion. Albion Paceway would also be in contention with easy access to and from the Olympic Village from Hamilton Northshore. Brisbane would then have 4 major stadiums. I can only imagine whatever the decision for the stadium, the Games legacy for Brisbane and SEQ will be front of mind.

[@EugeneRadicke]

The Super Stadium to me is spot on suggestion. A different plus for future Brisbane and the perfect location regarding transport

[@marko2299]

Hands down, Albion is ripe for it. Access to gateway and rail as well as ferry services and bus lines. After the games walk down to Racecourse road for dinner.

[@adamjones1805]

Yep. If the Gabba redevelopment is finished. Then it's time to build a new state of the art stadium above Cross River Rail. Otherwise, it renders that whole development precinct there beside the Gabba useless. Thereby wasting more money. Redeveloping Suncorp is just another failed Gabba. The only plan that makes sense and will have the transport infrastructure in place is a new stadium beside the Gabba. But they better get on and do it. Like the rest of the infrastructure planned and supposed to be ready for the Olympics, they better get a move on! Time is ticking.

[@BrisbaneDevelopment]

Great video Mel! Gabba 2.0 is the best idea or a refurb of the existing stadium.

[@electro_sykes]

my idea is build an Elevated Spur line between Salisbury & Qsac, and then also build a spur to the Busway for Brisbane Metro. Upgrade and Expand Qsac and build a major parking lot near Griffith University, that connects directly to the Pacific Motorway. And also run the existing Basketball shuttle buses between QSAC and Garden City.

[@jimmyboy2]

Gabba needs work and a refit will not have legacy. We'll need a 60k stadium by 2042. The gabba has PT integration and getting better with future cross river rail and metro. Build our version of the Allegiant stadium. There are three teams that use it. Building elsewhere means future white elephants. Gabba is the only choice. Above the rail station isn't big enough. Just do it ... $2 or $3 billion 🎉

[@keithmainey1303]

Gabba 2.0 ❤

[@PjRjHj]

John Coates should never have opened his mouth. He evidently has no understanding of Sports architecture and planning. He certainly has no business making any calls on venues

[@jaydenanders9814]

Either upgrade suncorp or build a second larger gabba on the adjacent site, so in the future when the gabba is too old/small it can be demolished

[@PjRjHj]

There is no adjacent site

[@glenmcveigh76]

Gabba 2.0 but make it 60000 stadium

[@PjRjHj]

55000 is the maximum the plot can satisfactorily fit

[@CA999]

Just leave the Olympics permanently in Greece.

[@tcaruso2]

I like the Gabba 2.0 option best.

[@amalpaul3103]

Move the proposed vic park green setting to the quarries and build a 100k seat stadium in Vic park area. Close to transport infra space to accomodate a stadium ( more like the mcg). Could even include additional features like the Tottenham stadium or the Santiago Bernabeau

[@marko2299]

Would be complete gridlock

[@amalpaul3103]

@@marko2299 I reckon a flyover through that section of the M3, which would help commuters that do not want to go to the stadium section. This flyover even could help prevent the current gridlock it faces I Know it would be expensive but it would better

[@I_hate_Vegemite]

It’s sounds like it’s going to be the ‘Cheap as Chips” Olympics and risks being an embarrassment to the whole of Australia. Suncorp Stadium is an ugly sh..hole. QSAC stadium …. you’re having a laugh, most Third World nations already have substantially better facilities. Move the 32 Olympics to Perth, even Adelaide could do better.

[@electro_sykes]

build an Elevated Spur line between Salisbury & Qsac, and then also build a spur to the Busway for Brisbane Metro. Upgrade and Expand Qsac and build a major parking lot near Griffith University, that connects directly to the Pacific Motorway. And also run the existing Basketball shuttle buses between QSAC and Garden City.

[@CA999]

Just leave the Olympics permanently in Greece.

[@wtfa2910]

I believe that the Brisbane Olympics should be canceled' so we can save money and they should give it to Los Angeles a world city because there's no world city in Australia

[@daveb3987]

Ha. We know Australia has one world city, one that tries to say it is and the rest.

[@PjRjHj]

Australia can't afford the reputation damage of cancelling the Games. The cancellation fee is also in the $billions

[@Teyhan61]

Haha you’ve got the Olympics and you haven’t figured it out yet!! Solution: have it at the greatest stadium in OZ! The MCG!

[@PjRjHj]

What makes it the greatest?

[@Teyhan61]

@@PjRjHj Attend any event or game there and you’ll realise why!

[@gabriel3.16]

Good news. We don’t want Olympics here.

[@wmwarner9196]

Labor are so destructive