Strong crowd ignites calls for Townsville Superstadium

Healthy NRL attendances for the North Queensland Cowboys in 2014 has ignited calls for a new stadium to be built in Townsville.

Over 25,000 fans packed 1300SMILES Stadium (formerly Dairy Farmers Stadium) for the recent final against the Brisbane Broncos. Townsville mayor Jenny Hill says the facilities are below standard and recently spoke with NRL bosses, who support plans for a new stadium to be built in Townsville’s CBD.

The Queensland State Government has committed $150 million and the NRL also appears likely to contribute to the project.

It’s believed the latest proposal for a new stadium would initially seat 25,000 and be left open at one end allowing for future expansion to 30,000.

The original integrated stadium and entertainment centre proposal included a 30,000-seat outdoor arena and indoor facilities capable of hosting entertainment or sporting events with crowds of up to 6000.