Architectus – one of Queensland’s largest and most-diverse architectural studios – has been selected as Principal Architect for the upgrade after a rigorous six-month selection process.
The Crisafulli Government is getting on with the job, with the upgrade of Barlow Park Stadium back on track and work getting underway soon to deliver a new grandstand, improved player amenities and accessibility, better equipment for athletes and increased seating, ensuring a lasting sporting and entertainment legacy for Cairns.
The new grandstand will increase seating from 1,700 to 5,000 and provide better and more immersive views, as well improved shade protection specially tailored to the Far North’s sun and tropical rain.
The stadium upgrade will also provide expanded food and drink offerings with improved circulation and service points, so sports fans don’t miss the action while waiting in line.
Architectus has worked on a range of outstanding projects, including the iconic and award-winning Queensland Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in Brisbane. They also completed the noted HMAS Cairns Redevelopment in Far North Queensland.
Architectus will collaborate with international sports architecture specialist HKS who are responsible for designing many of the world’s most recognised and acclaimed stadiums including SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, AT&T Stadium in Dallas and Optus Stadium in Perth.
The Barlow Park Stadium upgrade is part of the $7.1 billion Games Venues Infrastructure Program jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments and will be delivered by GIICA.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the upgraded stadium would deliver generational benefits.
“Regional areas of Australia are a key part of our nation’s sporting fabric, and upgrades like this to Barlow Park Stadium will help develop and inspire our next generation of sporting heroes,” Minister King said.
