Southport Sharks Moves Forward with Vision for Sport and Entertainment Precinct

The Southport Sharks’ ambitious master plan to create one of Australia’s premier sport, leisure, and entertainment precincts is progressing, following recent support from the Gold Coast City Council’s lifestyle committee for a 30-year lease extension. The plan’s centrepiece is a purpose-built stadium designed to accommodate 8,000 to 10,000 spectators, addressing the growing demand for such facilities in the Gold Coast region.

Southport Sharks CEO Dean Bowtell emphasised the importance of the development, describing it as “a crucial community facility” that will serve both sporting and broader community needs. The venue will house the club’s senior VFL and QAFLW teams and junior football programs, alongside amenities such as facilities for female athletes, a sports science hub, and spaces for live music and community events. Beyond AFL, the precinct will offer multi-sport capabilities, underlining its value to the region.

Designed by urban design firm Urbis, the stadium promises to deliver a distinctive event-day experience while integrating seamlessly with nearby infrastructure, including the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct and Smith Collective Village. The site’s accessibility via light rail and bus networks, enhanced by the legacy of the 2018 Commonwealth Games, is a key advantage.

The master plan extends beyond sport, addressing critical housing needs with proposed residential developments, including affordable housing and retirement living. Southport Sharks also aims to position itself as a hub for Queensland’s emerging sports tech sector, with plans to foster partnerships in athlete management, data analytics, wearable technology, and fan engagement.

The club’s vision aligns with the region’s broader goals, including the build-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Mr. Bowtell highlighted the opportunity to establish the precinct as a cornerstone of Queensland’s sports tech industry, enhancing the Gold Coast’s reputation as a leading destination for innovation and sporting excellence.

This latest council support is a significant milestone for the Southport Sharks, marking a step forward in delivering generational infrastructure for the northern Gold Coast. The council’s full approval of the lease extension will be pivotal in realising this transformative vision.

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