Suncorp Stadium in Milton Marks 30th Naming Anniversary

Suncorp Stadium in Milton marks a significant milestone this year – the 30th anniversary of its naming partnership. This iconic venue, with a history stretching back to the 19th century, has evolved from a cemetery to a world-class arena, shaping Queensland’s sporting and cultural landscape for generations.



The stadium’s 30-year naming anniversary falls in July, marking a significant milestone in its rich history.

Evolution of an Icon

The site’s history dates back to the mid-1800s when it served as Brisbane’s largest cemetery. In 1914, it was transformed into a recreational area named Lang Park, hosting various sports and events. The venue’s journey from a final resting place to a vibrant sporting hub reflects Brisbane’s growth and changing needs.

In 1994, after extensive renovations, the venue was officially renamed Suncorp-Metway Stadium, marking the beginning of Suncorp’s enduring partnership. This rebranding signalled a new era for the stadium, positioning it as a premier sporting venue in Queensland.

Further upgrades in 1999 elevated the stadium to world-class status, preparing it to host international events and attract global attention. The renovations included improved facilities, increased seating capacity, and enhanced spectator experiences.

Overcoming Natural Disasters 

The stadium’s resilience was tested during the 2011 Brisbane floods when water levels rose to the sixth row of seats. The venue ran on generators for six months, with changerooms temporarily relocated to the car park. This challenging period demonstrated the stadium’s importance to the community and the determination to preserve it.

Learning from this experience, improved flood mitigation procedures were implemented. The effectiveness of these measures was evident during the 2022 floods when the stadium resumed normal operations within just eight days, showcasing its adaptability and commitment to serving the community.

Sporting Achievements

Suncorp Stadium has been a stronghold for rugby, hosting numerous national and international events. Notable milestones include:

  • Nine games of the 2003 Rugby World Cup, bringing international attention to Brisbane
  • Both the semi-final and final of the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, cementing the stadium’s reputation as a premier rugby venue
  • The inaugural Super Rugby AU Championship win by the Queensland Reds in 2021, a triumphant moment for local fans

The stadium has witnessed countless memorable State of Origin clashes, with the Queensland Maroons and New South Wales Blues battling for supremacy. These matches have become an integral part of Queensland’s sporting culture.

Other Sporting Highlights The venue’s versatility has been demonstrated through various sporting events:

  • AFC Asian Cup matches in 2015, broadening its appeal to football fans
  • A record-breaking boxing event in 2017, featuring local hero Jeff Horn
  • The first NRL Magic Round in 2019, bringing all 16 NRL teams to Brisbane for a weekend extravaganza
Sports event at Suncorp Stadium in Milton
Photo Credit: Google Maps/Suncorp Stadium

Entertainment and Cultural Impact

Suncorp Stadium has evolved into a premier entertainment venue, welcoming global acts and providing unforgettable experiences for music fans. Notable performances include:

  • Robbie Williams (2006), marking the stadium’s first major concert after redevelopment
  • U2, bringing their iconic sound to Brisbane
  • Ed Sheeran (2018), breaking attendance records with 53,272 fans
  • Taylor Swift (2021), captivating audiences with her star power
  • P!nk (2024), continuing the tradition of world-class entertainment

These events have not only entertained locals but also attracted visitors to Brisbane, boosting tourism and the local economy.

Concerts at Suncorp Stadium in Milton
Photo Credit: Google Maps/Suncorp Stadium

Community Connection

Alan Graham, Suncorp Stadium General Manager, highlighted the venue’s importance: “There’s a whole generation who have never known the stadium by any other name than Suncorp Stadium. Suncorp’s sponsorship has helped ensure the stadium retains its status as one of the most exciting and entertaining stadiums on the planet.”

The stadium’s impact extends beyond sports and entertainment. It has become a symbol of Queensland’s resilience, a gathering place for communities, and a source of pride for locals. From hosting charity events to providing a platform for local talents, Suncorp Stadium continues to play a vital role in the social fabric of Brisbane.



Timeline of Suncorp Stadium’s Evolution

YearEvent
1840s-1875Site serves as North Brisbane Burial Grounds
1914Area transformed into Lang Park recreational site
1935Professional football clubs begin using the ground
1953Rugby becomes the dominant sport at Lang Park
1962Construction of Frank Burke Stand begins
1994Renamed Suncorp-Metway Stadium after renovations
1999Major upgrades to achieve world-class status
2003Hosts Rugby World Cup matches
2006First major concert (Robbie Williams) after redevelopment
2008Hosts Rugby League World Cup semi-final and final
2011Severely impacted by Brisbane floods
2015Hosts AFC Asian Cup matches
2017Record attendance for boxing event
2018Ed Sheeran breaks attendance record
2019Hosts inaugural NRL Magic Round
2021Extends naming rights agreement with Suncorp
2022Quickly recovers from floods, hosting events within two weeks
2024Celebrates 30-year naming anniversary

As Suncorp Stadium celebrates its 30-year naming anniversary, it continues to be a beloved icon, bringing together Queenslanders for unforgettable sporting and entertainment experiences. The venue mirrors Queensland’s growth and ambition, making it an integral part of the state’s identity.

Published 5-Aug-2024

Three Decades of Partnership and Matches at the Suncorp Stadium

Suncorp Stadium, formerly known as Lang Park, celebrated its 30-year naming anniversary this year, marking three decades of partnership between Suncorp Group, Stadiums Queensland, and operator ASM Global. 


Read: Suncorp Stadium in Milton Marks 30th Naming Anniversary


This collaboration, which began in 1994, stands as one of the longest-lasting stadium partnerships both in Australia and globally.

From Cemetery to Sporting Ground

The cemetery in 1917, now underneath Lang Park or Suncorp Stadium (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

The stadium’s rich history stretches back to 1914 when it was established on the site of the former North Brisbane Cemetery, also called Paddington Cemetery and Milton Cemetery. In its early days, Lang Park hosted a diverse array of sports, including cycling, athletics, and soccer. 

The venue’s original name paid homage to John Dunmore Lang, a Scottish-born Australian Presbyterian minister renowned for his advocacy of Australian independence and republicanism, and who was instrumental in bringing migrants directly to Brisbane.

The Birth of Suncorp Stadium

Photo credit: Justin Fattorini/Google Maps

The stadium underwent a significant transformation in the 1990s. Following major renovations, the venue once known as “The Cauldron” was rebranded as Suncorp-Metway Stadium, later simplified to Suncorp Stadium. This change marked the beginning of a new era for the iconic Queensland venue.

The Battle of Brisbane: A Historic Event

Throughout its history, Suncorp Stadium has played host to numerous memorable events, but perhaps none more significant than the “Battle of Brisbane” in 2017. 

This boxing match between Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Horn is widely regarded as the biggest in Australian history. The fight drew a crowd of 51,052 spectators, with stadium officials securing a special exemption to increase seating capacity to 60,000 for the event.

The bout itself was a closely contested affair. Horn, the local underdog with a record of 16-0-1 (11 KOs), faced off against the legendary Pacquiao, who entered the ring with an impressive 59-6-2 (38 KOs) record. 

Photo credit: Jeff Horn/Facebook

In a controversial decision, Horn was declared the winner by unanimous decision, with judges scoring the fight 117-111, 115-113, and 115-113 in his favour. Despite the contentious outcome, the event solidified Suncorp Stadium’s place in sporting history.


Read: Brisbane River Floated as Potential 2032 Olympics Opening Ceremony Venue


Looking to the Future

As Suncorp Group reflects on three decades of significant events that have impacted the Queensland community, they have also reaffirmed their commitment to the venue. This dedication ensures that Suncorp Stadium will continue to be at the heart of Queensland’s sporting and cultural life for years to come, hosting events that bring the community together and create lasting memories.

Published 6-August-2024

Community Shows Strong Support for More Concerts at Suncorp Stadium

Milton could soon see more concerts and major events as the community overwhelmingly backs a proposal to double the annual concert cap at Suncorp Stadium.

Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

Results from a recent public consultation reveal that over 75% of respondents living within the Lang Park Traffic Area, which includes Milton, either agreed or strongly agreed to permanently increase the number of concerts held at Suncorp Stadium from six to twelve per year.



The stadium, a landmark in Milton since its redevelopment in 2003, has been operating under a temporary increase to twelve concerts for 2023 and 2024. This change was implemented to capitalise on post-COVID-19 enthusiasm from concert promoters.

Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

Member for Cooper Jonty Bush, whose electorate includes Milton, expressed satisfaction with the community’s response: “It’s fantastic having a world-class stadium in our own backyard and having world-class performers entertaining huge crowds here.”

Bush also noted that a proposal to count a series of concerts by a single performer as one event will not proceed, providing Milton residents with “greater certainty in relation to the maximum number of actual concerts that will be happening close to home.”

Suncorp Stadium General Manager Alan Graham acknowledged the local community’s role in the stadium’s success: “We appreciate the support and cooperation of our locals when big events happen and will continue to apply measures to minimise any impact on our neighbours.”

The proposed changes could have significant implications for Milton and surrounding areas. While the increased number of events promises economic benefits, it may also mean more frequent disruptions to local traffic and potentially increased noise levels on concert nights.

Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy emphasised the broader impact: “These world-class stadia attract world-class performers and events. They play a vitally important role in Queensland’s sporting and cultural landscape, as well as growing tourism.”



The Queensland government will now consider all feedback before making any decisions about possible legislative amendments. For Milton residents, this could mean a busier, more vibrant local area, with up to twelve nights of world-class entertainment per year right on their doorstep.

Published 31-July-2024

Milton Apartment Boom: Developer Stacks 4 Storeys Amid Brisbane Luxury Demand

Brisbane’s escalating demand for luxury apartments has driven Kokoda Property to expand its ‘Ruby Ruby’ project in Milton. Initially planned for 22 storeys, the development will reach 26 levels, adding 34 apartments to the existing 144.



Milton apartments
Photo Credit: DA A006375195

This decision comes as Brisbane’s median unit value has recently surpassed Melbourne’s, marking the first instance since 2008.

Mark Stevens, founder and managing director of Kokoda Property, stated that Milton is emerging as a prestigious Brisbane address, with ‘Ruby Ruby’ setting a new standard for elevated living in the area. He emphasised the project’s commitment to providing sophisticated residences with a unique, subtropical-inspired design.

Milton apartments
Photo Credit: DA A006375195

Despite its central location, ‘Ruby Ruby’ aims to offer a beachside resort ambience with amenities such as a rooftop infinity pool, floating daybeds, cabanas, and a comprehensive health and wellness centre. 

Additionally, the development will cater to a corporate clientele with private dining and bar spaces, a cinema, a billiards room, and meeting rooms.



Milton apartments
Photo Credit: DA A006375195

Kokoda Property is also the developer behind ‘The Ambrose,’ a Ritz-Carlton-inspired residential building in Milton, and has recently received approval for its ‘Tides of Teneriffe’ project, a five-tower development comprising apartments, hotel rooms, and parking spaces.

Due to the upcoming 2032 Olympic Games, which will spur infrastructure development and population growth, Brisbane’s unit values have increased by over 18 percent in the previous year.

Published Date 31-July-2024

Brisbane River Floated as Potential 2032 Olympics Opening Ceremony Venue

The Brisbane River has emerged as a leading contender for hosting the 2032 Olympics opening ceremony, with plans potentially culminating at Suncorp Stadium in Milton, following the innovative riverfront spectacle of Paris 2024.



This idea gained momentum shortly after the Paris 2024 Olympic opening ceremony along the Seine River. 

Proponents argue that showcasing the river could offer a unique, quintessentially Brisbane experience while potentially accommodating larger crowds than traditional stadium venues. However, concerns have been raised about logistical challenges, including crowd management and potential environmental impacts on the river ecosystem. 

The debate highlights the tension between creating a memorable, iconic event and ensuring practical, sustainable solutions for the Olympic Games.

Queensland Police Minister Mark Ryan supported a Brisbane River ceremony, emphasising the city’s identity as the “river city.” However, opposition figures, including Tim Nicholls MP, suggested leaving such decisions to experts. They acknowledged the river’s beauty while cautioning against hasty decisions.

Venue Capacity Concerns

Brisbane faces significant challenges with its current stadium options:

– Suncorp Stadium: Seats only 52,500 spectators
– QSAC at Nathan: Proposed upgrade would accommodate just 40,000

Comparison to recent Olympics:

– Sydney 2000: 112,000 spectators
– Athens 2004: 72,000 attendees
– Beijing 2008: 90,000 capacity
– London 2012: 80,000 spectators
– Los Angeles 2028 (planned): 70,240 capacity

Queensland has ruled out building a new stadium or rebuilding the Gabba for the 2032 Games, leaving organisers to grapple with capacity constraints.

Suncorp Stadium in Milton
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Branding and Global Awareness

Brisbane 2032 Olympic organisers have unveiled their global branding tagline “Shine Brightest, Together” in a short promotional video. Shown to audiences in Paris, the clip features iconic Olympic moments and aerial shots of the Brisbane River but notably lacks substantial focus on Brisbane itself.

Andrew Liveris, Brisbane 2032 president, acknowledged the city’s low global brand awareness, comparing it to Barcelona before its Olympic hosting. He emphasised plans to showcase the region’s multicultural identity and integrate First Nations culture throughout the Games experience, promising more than tokenistic representation.

Planning and Legacy Concerns

A senate inquiry has been launched to examine Australia’s preparedness for the 2032 Games and the event’s potential sporting infrastructure legacy. This follows controversies surrounding venue decisions and communication issues between state and federal governments.

Former Sport Minister Richard Colbeck criticised the Queensland government’s handling of the Olympic bid, citing a lack of transparency and consultation in key decisions such as the now-scrapped Gabba rebuild plan. Colbeck claimed the federal government was “completely bushwhacked” by Queensland’s unilateral decision-making.

Community Impact and Co-Hosting

Brisbane’s original Olympic bid promised a statewide event, with co-host cities including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and several regional centres. The official Olympics website still lists multiple regions as co-hosts, including Sydney and Melbourne, emphasising the Games’ potential widespread impact.



With three years until Brisbane can officially sign up sponsors, the organising committee is using this time to build global awareness and refine their vision for the 2032 Olympics.

Published 29-July-2024

Dolphins vs Titans: Phins Look to Cement Top Eight Spot Against Gold Coast

The Dolphins aim to keep their finals dream alive as they prepare to face the Gold Coast Titans at Suncorp Stadium this Sunday, July 28. Coming off a narrow golden point loss to the reigning premiers, Wayne Bennett’s men look to solidify their position in the top eight against a struggling Titans outfit. Dolphins vs Titans kick off 4:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Broncos vs Bulldogs: Brisbane’s Finals Fate in Balance as Bulldogs Come to Town

Close loss against the reigning premiers

The Dolphins enter the match full of confidence despite a heartbreaking 28-26 loss to the Penrith Panthers, showcasing their ability to compete with the league’s best. In a thrilling encounter, the Dolphins took an early lead with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow scoring a first-half double. This, along with Isaiya Katoa’s effort, gave the Dolphins an 18-12 lead at halftime.

The second half saw the Dolphins extend their lead to 26-14, with Jack Bostock scoring and Jamayne Isaako adding a penalty goal. However, the Panthers mounted a comeback, capitalising on Josh Kerr’s sin-binning in the 74th minute to level the score and force a golden point.

Despite the eventual 28-26 loss, sealed by Nathan Cleary’s 42-metre drop goal, the Dolphins’ performance against the premiers has raised their stock considerably. Their ability to push the Panthers to the limit in enemy territory bodes well for their finals aspirations.

Dolphins vs Titans

The Titans, on the other hand, find themselves in a precarious position, sitting six points outside the top eight after a defeat by Manly. Despite this setback, the Gold Coast side had won three consecutive matches prior, including a commanding 66-6 victory over the Warriors.

The Dolphins hold a perfect record against the Titans, winning all three of their previous encounters. Their most recent matchup saw the Dolphins overcome a slow start to claim a 30-14 victory, with Jack Bostock scoring his first career try double.

Currently sitting seventh on the ladder with a 9-8 record, the Dolphins have lost three of their last four matches. However, their competitive showing against Penrith suggests they’re hitting form at the right time.

The Titans, despite their recent struggles, boast a strong record at Suncorp Stadium, having won three of their past four games at the venue.

The matchup pits two experienced coaches against each other, with Wayne Bennett holding a 21-11 head-to-head advantage over Des Hasler. Bennett’s recent record is particularly impressive, having won his last six games against Hasler-coached teams.

Read: Dashcam Captures Two-Car Collision in Milton After State of Origin Decider

As the regular season enters its final stages, this clash holds significant implications for both teams. The Dolphins will be eager to maintain their position in the top eight and build momentum towards a potential finals berth a year after their inaugural season.

Published 22-July-2024

Dashcam Captures Two-Car Collision in Milton After State of Origin Decider

In the aftermath of last week’s State of Origin decider at Suncorp Stadium, a two-vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of Coronation Drive and Park Road in Milton.


Read: Maroons vs Blues: Queensland Chase Victory in Origin Decider at Suncorp


The incident, which took place around 11:00 p.m., involved one vehicle rolling over and was captured on dashcam footage later shared on social media.

Emergency services promptly responded to the scene following reports of the crash. The Queensland Ambulance Service assessed two patients at the site. One individual was transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital for further treatment, while the second patient declined hospitalisation. Investigations are ongoing.

Photo credit: Dash Cam Owners Australia/Facebook

The footage, posted on the Facebook page of Dash Cam Owners Australia, has sparked considerable discussion online. Eyewitnesses and commenters have offered their interpretations of the events leading up to the collision. 

One observer noted, “First white car was in dedicated right turn lane (that ended there), then crossed a solid white line into the path of second white car.” Another commenter suggested, “White car changed its mind and decided to go straight instead of turning.

Photo credit: Dash Cam Owners Australia/Facebook

Some speculated that the incident might have been influenced by the high-stakes rugby match that had just concluded. One commenter humorously remarked, “Probably lost vision from crying too much after the game.”

The crash serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly during and after major sporting events, like the State of Origin Decider, when traffic volumes are high. Local authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and remain vigilant on the roads, especially in the vicinity of large venues following events.


Read: Remembering the Maroons First Lang Park Origin Decider Win in 1983


The incident has reignited discussions about traffic management and safety measures around Suncorp Stadium during major events.

Published 22-July-2024

Broncos vs Bulldogs: Brisbane’s Finals Fate in Balance as Bulldogs Come to Town

Brisbane Broncos gear up for a pivotal match against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs this Saturday, July 27, as they aim to keep their finals hopes alive. Coming off a morale-boosting win against the Newcastle Knights, the Broncos seek to capitalise on their renewed momentum and climb the ladder. Broncos vs Bulldogs kick off 3:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Milton Weight Loss Clinic Lifeshape Liquidates, Owing Over Half a Million Dollars

Impressive victory against Knights

Last weekend, Brisbane’s commanding 30-14 victory over the Newcastle Knights at McDonald Jones Stadium signalled their potential for a late-season surge as captain Adam Reynolds made an impactful return from injury alongside star fullback Reece Walsh.

The Broncos’ forward pack dominated, with prop Corey Jensen delivering a robust performance in the middle, supported by strong showings from Origin stars Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan. Centre Deine Mariner had a standout game, running for 171 metres and scoring two tries, placing him as joint top try-scorer in the NRL.

Broncos vs Bulldogs

The Broncos, currently sitting at 11th place with an 8-10 record, ended a six-game losing streak with their victory over the Knights. This win has reignited their campaign for a top-eight finish, placing them just three spots away from a finals berth.

The Bulldogs, on the other hand, occupy the sixth spot with a 9-8 record. Despite their higher position, Canterbury finds themselves in a precarious situation, at risk of falling out of playoff contention.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this matchup is the Bulldogs’ stark home-away record. Canterbury remains the only team in the league undefeated at home. However, their away record of 1-8 presents a potential advantage for the Broncos, who will be hosting this crucial encounter.

For the Broncos, this game represents a critical opportunity to strengthen their position in the race for the finals. With a challenging schedule ahead, including three away games and a season finale against the league-leading Melbourne Storm, Brisbane views this match as a must-win to stay in contention.

The Broncos’ last encounter with the Bulldogs on July 15 last year resulted in a convincing 44-24 victory at Belmore Oval. In that match, captain Adam Reynolds spearheaded an undermanned Brisbane outfit to a dominant win. With Reynolds making an impactful return from injury last game, fans anticipate another stellar performance against the Bulldogs.

Read: How Love Me Again Market is Changing Brisbane’s Fashion Landscape

The Broncos will charge onto Suncorp Stadium’s hallowed ground with their finals aspirations hanging in the balance. With the memory of their last victory over Canterbury and the significant advantage of home ground, Brisbane enters this clash with cautious optimism. However, they face a Bulldogs side equally desperate to cement their position in the top eight, setting the stage for an intense encounter.

Published 22-July-2024

Milton Weight Loss Clinic Lifeshape Liquidates, Owing Over Half a Million Dollars

Lifeshape, a weight loss clinic based in Milton, has entered liquidation after owing more than half a million dollars to creditors.



Lifeshape in Milton
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map

The clinic, which had a 25-year history and helped over 10,000 Australians lose weight, ceased trading in April 2024.

Liquidator Jason Bettles of Worrells confirmed the closure and revealed that the company owes employees $307,430 in unpaid wages, leave entitlements, and superannuation.

Lifeshape in Milton
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) reports further detailed debts of $680,462.88 to various creditors, including the Australian Taxation Office and real estate company Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL).

Lifeshape’s website acknowledges the closure of its Milton office but does not provide a reason for it. The company recently celebrated its 25th anniversary on Facebook, highlighting its growth and expansion to Sydney and Melbourne. It also won the Queensland Telstra Business of the Year award in 2006-07 and was a finalist for the same award in 2023.



Lifeshape in Milton
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map

According to the ASIC report, the company’s remaining assets are limited despite its past successes, with a net resellable value of only $847. Lifeshape Clinic did not respond to requests for comment.

Published Date 18-July-2024

Maroons vs Blues: Queensland Chase Victory in Origin Decider at Suncorp

As the 2024 State of Origin series reaches its climax, Queensland prepares to defend their home turf in a decisive Game 3 at Suncorp Stadium. With the series tied at 1-1, the Maroons aim to capitalise on their impressive record in deciders and secure their third consecutive series victory. Maroons vs Blues kick off 8:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Remembering the Maroons First Lang Park Origin Decider Win in 1983

Home ground advantage

Queensland enters the decider with history on their side. The Maroons have won nine of the last ten Origin deciders, including the last six played in Queensland. Their last defeat in a home decider came in 2005, underlining the formidable challenge that awaits the Blues.

Coach Billy Slater has made strategic adjustments to strengthen the squad. Veteran Dane Gagai and dynamic fullback Kalyn Ponga return to the Origin arena, while Selwyn Cobbo slots into the centres. Kurt Capewell moves into the starting side, replacing Jaydn Su’a. Despite recent injury concerns, both Harry Grant and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow trained, boosting the team’s preparations.

Maroons vs Blues

While New South Wales has shown dominance in certain areas, Queensland maintains crucial advantages. The Maroons lead in line breaks (12 to 9) and average nearly one metre more per run than their opponents.

State of Origin team comparison
Photo Credit: The Analyst

Queensland’s ability to finish games strongly could likewise prove decisive. In recent Origin matches, the Maroons have consistently outscored the Blues in the second half, including three or more tries in four of the last five games, two of which are in the previous games of this series.

As the Maroons’ eighteenth man, a sell-out crowd at Suncorp Stadium is expected to create a rowdy atmosphere. With a combined attendance of over 167,000 for the first two games, this series is on track to be one of the most-watched in Origin history.

Read: How Love Me Again Market is Changing Brisbane’s Fashion Landscape

As the series hangs in the balance, the Maroons ability to perform under pressure in deciders will be crucial in their quest for another series victory. With home advantage, historical success, and key players in form, Queensland stands ready to write another glorious chapter in their State of Origin legacy.

Published 13-July-2024