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The RNA Funding Proposal

This may have come as a surprise to the stakeholders.

Those being Lions/AFL, Cricket, BCC & to a lesser extent the RNA.

But they all should have seen this likely scenario from the beginning.

The consultants to the Qld. Government stated clearly that any big money spends should always remain a Qld or Federal governments assets.

The Premier/ Qld. Gov.

When asked about the RNA for AFL/Cricket the Premier always stated the RNA is earmarked for equestrian.

I don't recall the premier making any mention or promises about a proposed venue other that various sites will be looked into.

I could be wrong but i don't think i am.

I am sure lots of to and fro from the stakeholders were the reason the RNA kept being on the list of preferred sites in the media.

Most likely some MP also mentioned the RNA as a preferred site along with a lot of media. But nothing from Cabinet.

The Lord Mayor

He said the RNA was a "no brainer" and was so keen about spending $80 million (his figure) he fully backed the proposal.

As of today, when the BCC has to actually put up some big money, he has changed tune.

Today he stated, “always happy to discuss making a minor contribution” but the project would not go ahead “based on this funding model”.

Brisbane Lions

Brief generic statement when you don't get what you think you were going to get.

Using words like “finally moving forward” & “starting point”.

Not much else he could say publicly i suppose.

AFL

The AFL was only prepared to front $15 million towards the $375 million Hobart Stadium

On that basis they may put up $6 million but unlikely as the investment is only for 4 years.

That money would be better spent compensating the Lions for lost revenue.

Just add say $1.5 million to the Lions Club Distribution each year.

The RNA

They were always going to get big improvements while hosting the equestrian with 50/50 State/Federal funding.

I have previously posted without any incite as to what's proposed for those improvements.

I think the major money would be to bring the horse accommodation up to Olympic standard. Possibly add a warmup arena.

A revamped oval to Olympic equestrian standards.

Cosmetic upgrade to seating in the arena that holds 20K.

No need for extra shelter for a 14-day event other than the existing grandstands.

Why would the RNA go out and borrow money to benefit AFL & Cricket for 4 years.

The temporary stands will be taken down and capacity reduced to 12K.

If the RNA doesn't do anything they will get a great facelift for the venue they own for nothing come the Olympics.

BHA

Was not suitable for many reasons.

Club never showed proposed upgrade plans to members. I doubt anything under cover just like the RNA.

Site not owned by the Government, but they will fund 50/50 should the site go ahead with planned Modern Pentathlon.

So likely some improvement coming free down the track.

Carrara

The Club have always stated Carrara is their last option as a preferred site. I believe that time has now arrived.

I think the club may have a big concern about the players travelling to Carrara every 2 weeks.

Well paid professional athletes should be able to handle that although not ideal.

The other is a big drop in membership and of course revenue.

I don't think the membership will drop any more than if the venue was at BHA or RNA.

In fact, i think they will retain more members if they choose Carrara.

They just need to think of ways to retain them. One obvious one is guaranteed first choice good seating at the rebuilt Gabba.

We all know Carrara is a bitch to get to and return from, but you get a good seat with coverage around 80% of the ground.

Members will get paid access to members carpark (denied for away teams) as well as the usual ones near the ground.

Corporate boxes and seating already in place. Catering already in place. Ground staff already in place.

I would think much cheaper "game day fees" than The Gabba charge.

Qld/Aus. Cricket

Have not seen anything yet on their thoughts.

The Proposed RNA Upgrade

A 20-k capacity with mostly exposed seating.

Possibly a lot of money going into AFL standard lighting.

One whole wing area considered prime viewing at any AFL stadium looks like it is reduced to about 10 rows.

Then that section continues to the goal point post

The oval will be an odd shape for a normal AFL oval.

No home ground advantage until maybe the 2nd year after playing 11 or so games. However, we will have a no travel advantage.

A 20K capacity to me, indicates just 14K or less members may get a seat. That's with just allowing 500/1000 opposition supporters.

That is assuming the AFL allow us to reduce opposition members to a low number like that.

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The quicker the Lions accept that Carrara is the best option the quicker they can get money out of the State government to upgrade the Northern end and increase capacity at Carrara.

Where is the money coming from you ask.

The answer is the State and Federal Government 50/50 funding for Olympic venue upgrades.

Cricket now added to LA games so is certain to be added to the Brisbane games.

The Qld. Gov. looks like they are prepared at a maximum to part with $45 million.

So, use Olympic Cricket as a reason to fund an upgrade.

If i was the Lions i would start with suggesting a $45 million upgrade to Carrara and settle with a $20-30 million upgrade.

The upgrade could include extra carparks.

Then the asset stays in Qld. Government hands, fits into the lasting Legacy part of the Gov games intentions.