$10m pledge for boutique Ipswich Stadium
The Queensland’s Premier has pledged $10 million towards a 12,000-capacity stadium at the North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct.
Originally conceived as a 20,000-seat stadium in 2019 as part of the Jets bid to become the NRL’s second team in Brisbane, updated concept designs were revealed in 2021, before the Jets eventually lost out to the Dolphins.
Now the region is keen to see more NRL action in their backyard, events during the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, and other top-level A-League and rugby matches, as part of a push to transform North Ipswich Reserve into a boutique 12,000-capacity stadium.
Current renders show a new world-class grandstand with two levels of seating, new lights and scoreboard, with a grass hill surrounding the rectangular pitch. The development would see North Ipswich Reserve renamed the North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct.
The Queensland Premier said the funds would upgrade facilities at the home of the Ipswich Jets for both community and national standard sports.
“The Jets aren’t my QRL team but I’ve always admired their rugby league history and their big local following,” Steven Miles said.
The state government’s investment builds on the $20 million federal election commitment.
It's understood the Ipswich Council will also contribute $10 million towards the project.
The State would seek to deliver the project in partnership with all three levels of government.
Federal Blair MP Shayne Neumann said Ipswich is Queensland’s fastest growing region and a sporting powerhouse, and therefore deserves world-class sporting facilities.
“I have been championing this marquee project for several years and I know it will be a real game-changer for our city.
“I’m looking forward to working with the Miles Government and Ipswich City Council to get the ball rolling,” Mr Neumann said.
Good discussion today with @IpswichCouncil and football codes on the North Ipswich Sport and Entertainment Precinct.
— Shayne Neumann (@ShayneNeumannMP) March 2, 2023
I secured $20M to upgrade North Ipswich stadium and I’ll keep working with stakeholders to deliver this vital project. @RLIpswich @JetsRLFC @WesternPrideFC pic.twitter.com/eyOML1Fklf
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, Patron of the Ipswich Jets, added that the timing of the announcement would elevate North Ipswich Reserve’s prospects of being included in the Brisbane 2032 venue masterplan, which is currently undergoing a 60-day review.
“Ipswich is honoured to already be a co-host city for the Brisbane 2032 Games, having secured Brighton Homes Arena a place on the existing venue masterplan.
“I strongly believe North Ipswich Reserve, which is now funded for redevelopment and in close proximity to heavy rail and the Nicholas Street Precinct, should be seriously considered as a cost-effective option for the Brisbane 2032 masterplan.”
The ground recently hosted a NRL trial match between the Gold Coast Titans and Parramatta Eels in front of a near-capacity crowd of 5,306.
