Skilled Park takes shape

Just three months ago the site of the Gold Coast Titans' dream stadium was nothing but a dirt strip.

With the seating structures erected and the first sections of the roof ready to be put in place this week, the skeleton of the $160 million stadium is well on its way.

In only months, the new stadium has taken shape, not only to the delight of the thousands of fans around the Coast, but also to the Titans' boss.

Jetstar Gold Coast Titans managing director Michael Searle said he was excited about the progress of work on Skilled Park, which is expected to be finished ahead of its March, 2008, deadline.

"I drive past every third day and always see something new," he said.

"At this stage, while it's looking very visual, there is a lot to do behind the scenes which people can't see.

"It does appear to be a long way advanced though, you can even see it as you come over the crest along the Robina Parkway and from the top of Q1, but there is still plenty of work to be done."

On Friday, from the top floor of Q1 where NRL boss David Gallop announced the 2007 season launch would be held at Surfers Paradise, Titans bosses said it was a good indicator of the progress at the site, when they spotted the construction of the western stand from such a distance.

Mr Searle said the good news was that construction was on schedule, as the new club looks forward to playing their first game at the 25,000-seat stadium in 2008.

"To say it's exciting is an understatement," he said.

"Seeing it materialise so quickly like this gives us hope.

"We've committed to play all 12 home games of the 2008 season at the new stadium and we're looking forward to playing in such an outstanding home venue."

After the first sod was turned in May, constructors Watpac began to drive the first of the 640 pylons into the ground that will eventually form the framework of the sporting arena.

Once completed, Skilled Park will have 100 open corporate boxes and 28 closed corporate suites, a 500-seat function centre and 16 food and drink outlets.

The western stand will form the showpiece area of the venue, a 14,000sqm stand that will be the base for season ticket holders.

Outside the stadium, a retail precinct will be built for fans who arrive by rail at Robina railway station next door, by bus, car or even by watercraft, up the Mudgeeraba Creek at the rear of the stadium.