Queensland's home of rugby set for revival

A letter from Queensland Rugby Union CEO David Hanham has confirmed that Ballymore, long the spiritual home of rugby in Queensland, is set for a revival.

“The State Government this week released the report of the independent Stadiums Taskforce, which has spent the past six months reviewing Queensland’s stadium infrastructure,” Hanham’s statement reads.

“Ballymore has been the spiritual home of Rugby in Queensland for more than half a century, and we’re determined that it remain so.

“Ballymore has fallen into disrepair, with no significant revenue from the ground to offset maintenance and depreciation costs of more than $1.5 million a year.

“That’s money that should be invested into developing the game around the State to support our clubs and schools grow and thrive.

“We’re pleased that the Taskforce has agreed with the QRU’s view that the precinct should be redeveloped.  We have now completed a detailed feasibility model with CBRE on the plan to deliver long term viability of the site and what will enable the best outcome for Rugby in Queensland.

“Our vision is for a world class sports and community precinct delivering a National Rugby Training Centre (NRTC) – the new national headquarters for Women’s Rugby, a new home for the Queensland Reds and a game development hub for the country.

“It will mean a redevelopment of the precinct, with the demolition of ageing stands and new world-class high performance facility integrated with a new grandstand with appropriate seating capacity for sporting events such as Premier Club Rugby finals, men’s and women’s professional football matches, National 7s Rugby championships, State club and school Rugby championships and Wallaroo Test matches.

“We look forward to sharing our vision for a new Ballymore with you early in the New Year.”

The Queensland region is steeped in history, with official matches recorded as early as 1876.

The Reds – Queensland’s Super Rugby side – were based at Ballymore until 2006, before relocating to Suncorp Stadium. They were Super Rugby champions in 1994 and 1995 (then Super 10) and again in 2011.

The Reds often play friendlies at Ballymore, and NRC side Brisbane City currently play their matches at the ground.

In other news: