Hockey Queensland Prioritises Gold Coast Venue While Addressing Brisbane Facility Needs

In their joint submission to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games 100 Day Review, Hockey Queensland (HQ) and Hockey Australia (HA) have highlighted the Gold Coast Hockey Centre (GCHC) as the ideal venue for the 2032 Olympic Games, citing its strategic advantages in cost-effectiveness and sustainability.  As a legacy facility from the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the GCHC is well-positioned to host Olympic-level competitions with minimal upgrades. These include the addition of a new pitch and enhanced broadcasting infrastructure to meet international standards.

The venue’s proximity to the proposed athlete village at Robina ensures a seamless and integrated experience for competitors, contributing to the overall quality of the Games. By positioning hockey as a visually engaging and fan-friendly sport, the Gold Coast venue aligns with broader goals to elevate the Games’ profile while providing a professional environment for both athletes and spectators.

Brisbane Facility Shortages Remain a Challenge

While the Gold Coast is prioritised for immediate development, it also highlighted the critical need for additional facilities in Brisbane. The submission points to a significant shortfall in synthetic hockey pitches across the state, with Brisbane at the centre of the issue. The organisations emphasised the strategic value of a Brisbane venue, citing its capacity to host high-profile events and serve as a central hub for the sport in Queensland.

Without adequate facilities in the state’s capital, Queensland risks falling behind in its ability to host major events, such as the Hockey World Cup or the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032. A dedicated Brisbane venue would not only strengthen the city’s sporting profile but also ensure accessibility for a broader base of participants and stakeholders.

Infrastructure Investment to Sustain Growth

Hockey Queensland’s proposal for the Gold Coast and Brisbane facilities reflects a long-term vision to meet growing participation demands. The submission estimates that Queensland currently requires seven additional synthetic pitches, with a further ten needed by 2042.

The development of a Gold Coast venue, coupled with strategic investments in Brisbane, would create a dual-centre approach to supporting hockey’s growth. This approach aims to cater to the needs of both community players and high-performance athletes, fostering greater inclusivity and long-term sustainability.

Preparing for Brisbane 2032

With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, Hockey Queensland’s submission stresses the urgency of infrastructure investment to prepare the state for its role on the global sporting stage. Both the Gold Coast and Brisbane are seen as critical components in delivering a successful Olympic legacy for hockey.

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