MEDIA RELEASE
CAZALYS STADIUM MASTERPLAN: TRANSFORMING CAIRNS INTO A GLOBAL DESTINATION FOR SPORT AND ENTERTAINMENT

Cairns, December 2024 – The Cazalys Stadium Masterplan unveils an ambitious vision for Cairns, combining community connection, elite sports infrastructure, and economic growth to secure the region’s future as a world-class sporting and entertainment hub. Designed to meet the needs of elite International events and grassroots participation, this redevelopment sets the stage for Cairns to play a prominent role as a co-host city for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Masterplan, managed by Project Management and advisory COHA Group in collaboration with Cox Architecture, local firm CA Architects reflects over serval years of meticulous planning to future-proof Cazalys Stadium for the next 30 years.

Craig Lees, General Manager of AFL Cairns, explained:

“This redevelopment has been a body of work spanning the best part of several years, driven by the expertise of COHA Group, Cox Architecture, CA Architects and Gleeds. Our ambition is to ensure Cazalys Stadium is front of mind for hosting Olympic and Paralympic content in 2032, as part of Cairns’ role as a co-host city. This project delivers for the community today while ensuring we’re ready for the opportunities of tomorrow, from elite International events to local sporting pathways.”

The Masterplan prioritizes:

• 20,000-seat capacity: Accommodating major events while retaining a community-friendly feel.
• Inclusivity and diversity: Creating spaces that reflect the culture and spirit of Cairns, embracing all members of the community.
• Event-ready infrastructure: Designed to host concerts, International artists, and global conferences, revitalizing Cairns’ entertainment scene.

 Reviving Cairns’ Concert and Event Scene

Cazalys Stadium has previously hosted major events, including the Elton John concert in 2017, which drew a record crowd of 20,000. The redevelopment ensures Cairns is not left behind in attracting global artists, large-scale concerts, and International events into the future. With upgraded facilities, improved crowd capacity, and world-class amenities, Cazalys Stadium will become a destination venue capable of hosting the biggest names in music, entertainment, and sport, bringing significant tourism and economic benefits to the region.

AFL Content Opportunities

While discussions about a potential 20th AFL license remain ongoing and undeclared, the Cazalys Stadium Masterplan ensures we can continue to host additional AFL and AFLW premiership matches in the short to medium term. The enhanced infrastructure will position Cairns as a stronger contender for marquee AFL events, including blockbuster fixtures and expanded AFL and AFLW content for Far North Queensland which could include a future AFLW Gather Round. This Masterplan positions AFL Cairns to host more premiership matches and elite AFL/AFLW content, solidifying the stadium as a premier regional hub for high-performance sport,” Lees said.

Delivering Economic and Community Benefits

The redevelopment of Cazalys Stadium is set to deliver significant economic and social outcomes for Far North Queensland, including:

• Jobs and local investment: Creating hundreds of jobs during construction and ongoing operational opportunities.
• Tourism and events: Attracting national and international competitions, concerts, and conferences, boosting visitation and supporting local businesses.
• Increased Sporting Content: Building on successes like the Australia vs. New Zealand cricket series in 2022, we are committed to securing regular, high-profile AFL and cricket matches in Cairns, whilst also attracting world-class events such as the Freestyle Kings.

 A Hub for Community and Culture

Cazalys Stadium will be more than a sporting venue; it will continue to serve as a true community hub, combining modern sporting infrastructure with spaces for local recreation, connection, and events. The inclusion of an Athlete and Community Active Wellbeing Centre will support elite athletes, grassroots programs, and community health and fitness initiatives.

 Future-Proofed for Growth

Cazalys Stadium stands ready to meet the growing demands of Far North Queensland, ensuring Cairns remains competitive on the world stage. From its role as a co-host city for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to expanded opportunities for hosting AFL premiership matches, International and domestic cricket, concerts and entertainment the stadium will be a key driver for regional growth, community pride, and global visibility.

“This redevelopment is about creating a lasting legacy for Cairns—addressing both our current and future needs—while positioning us to compete for opportunities in the lead-up to, during, and beyond the Games. It also opens the door to decentralising elite sports and entertainment events across the regions in Queensland, ensuring our community has a stadium to enjoy every day. We look forward to collaborating with all levels of Government as we move into 2025,” Lees said.

 For further information, please contact:

Craig Lees
General Manager
AFL Cairns/ Cazalys Stadium
45-61 Tills Street, Westcourt, 4870 QLD
0433 162 653/ craig@aflcairns.com.au