Suncorp Stadium Archives - Page 3 of 11

Massive Finale for Top 4 Spot Without Shibasaki

We knew Madge was a disciplinarian when he came to Red Hill but today, he punched that ticket pretty hard.

Gehmat Shibasaki is being dropped to the reserves after a disciplinary breach, for what has to be the biggest as well as final game of the regular season.

The viral Reece Walsh drinking from his toilet bowl incident, dismissed by the club as “poor humour” will also likely not have the Broncos star in the best mindset.

So Madge is rowing against the tide, but will send his troops out onto Suncorp in this dramatic finale against the second-placed, Storm, on Thursday night for an epic end to a rollercoaster regular season.

A team brimming with talent, where many are quiet, hard workers, can only benefit from firm guardrails to deliver their best on the field, so Madge’s authority is welcome, though demoting one of the season’s stars must have tested his principles.

His management of the Ezra Mam drama, the effervescence of Reece Walshand now the Shibaski error has appeared very sound and in his first season at Red Hill, appears to be delivering progress as noted by the push for the four. These are young, hard-working blokes desperate to please a city they are proud of, but in need of oversight and mentorship.

Last week’s win at the Cowboys in Townsville was a must-win, and the Broncos will carry plenty of attacking confidence into the game even without Shibasaki, though they were shut down in their game in Melbourne by the Storm defence only a month ago, when they lost 22-2.

Despite apparently looking for the “w”, the Storm have nothing to play for as they will finish second either way. If the Broncos can have a big first half, will Craig Bellamy keep his biggest wepons on the field? There’s no doubt they won’t want to enter the play-offs with two consecutive defeats having been rolled by the Roosters 40-10 last week.

Jessie Arthurs will be back on the wing. Deine Mariner will play in the centres. Brendan Piakura starts in the back row.

Adam Reynolds will sit out, hoping his hamstring tweak will be ready for the play-offs. Coming back too early was potentially a vital error driven by Reynolds himself, though you can’t blame him for wanting to contribute to a team straining to make the four.

For the Storm, Jahrome Hughes will be back. Will he be 100% after 6 weeks on the sidelines with a shoulder injury? It feels like a case of giving their star gametime before the playoffs rather than being confident he can deliver everything the Storm need. Surely he will be targeted to disrupt half-back flow?

The Ben Hunt-Billy Walters combo will need to be at their best against the Hughes-Munster duo. Bellamy brings back Xavier Coates, Eli Katoa, Nick Meaney and Josh King, after being rested last week. Attivalu Lisati starts at second row. Tui Kamikamica will be on the bench.

Huge game and surely the 14th man on the field, the Broncos faithful will nudge the boys over the line. Kick off is 7.30pm at Suncorp, if you can’t make it the game will be broadcast live on Channel 9, 9 Now, Foxtel and Kayo.

Published 3-Sept-2025

Darren Burden to Lead Suncorp Stadium into New Era of Sports and Events

Suncorp Stadium is preparing for a major change at the top, with venue executive Darren Burden named as its next General Manager. Burden will take over leadership of the Brisbane stadium later this year, following the retirement of long-serving GM Alan Graham.

A Familiar Face with Global Experience

Graham will retire in July 2025 after more than 20 years managing Suncorp Stadium, a venue known for hosting State of Origin games, rugby internationals and major concerts. Darren Burden, currently leading Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park, will take over with decades of stadium experience across Asia, New Zealand and Australia.

He has managed more than 4,000 events and recently helped launch the $4 billion Kai Tak precinct, which has sold nearly one million tickets since March. Burden also oversaw Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin and Christchurch’s Vbase group, and contributed to redevelopments at Accor Stadium and Bankwest Stadium.

ASM Global, which manages Suncorp Stadium for Stadiums Queensland, confirmed his appointment. Burden will also serve as Senior Vice President Asia, supporting regional projects while based in Brisbane.

Farewell to a Local Fixture

Alan Graham has led Suncorp Stadium since its 2003 rebuild, helping it become one of the world’s busiest rectangular-field venues with about 60 events each year. He guided the stadium through major moments, including recovery from the 2011 floods and events like the Pacquiao vs. Horn fight and the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Colleagues noted his steady leadership, local knowledge and strong ties to the community. His time at the venue also included charity work, such as the annual Christmas lunch for those in need. ASM Global credited him with leaving a solid foundation for the next chapter.

A New Chapter for a Brisbane Landmark

Darren Burden said he was honoured to follow Alan Graham and lead a venue so connected to Brisbane’s identity. He recognised Suncorp Stadium’s standing as a top rugby league ground and looked forward to working with clubs, promoters and local groups. With Brisbane preparing for the 2032 Olympics, the stadium is expected to feature prominently in the event schedule.

*Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium/Facebook*

Burden’s background in managing major venues and large-scale events is seen as a strong fit for the years ahead. While government will handle any upgrade plans, Burden will focus on daily operations and the stadium’s long-term direction.

A Smooth Transition Ahead

Though the leadership change is still months away, both Graham and Burden are working closely to ensure a smooth transition. Burden will officially relocate to Brisbane later this year after completing final duties at Kai Tak, including several major events.

This change marks a new phase for Suncorp Stadium, blending local legacy with global expertise. For fans, clubs, and eventgoers across Queensland, the stadium’s future appears to be in experienced hands.

Published 21-June-2025

Sunday Sunshine at Suncorp: Broncos to Sunburn Sharks?

Photo Credit: NRL/YouTube

Brisbane footy fans, clear your schedule—because this Sunday at Suncorp Stadium, the Broncos return with intent. With a fresh squad and a big win still in their rearview mirror, Brisbane will look to tame the Cronulla Sharks in a Round 16 matchup that could reshape the top-eight conversation.

Kick-off is set for 2:00 pm, and after a well-timed bye, the Broncos are bracing for a real litmus test of their depth and form. The Titans were handled with ease in Round 14, but the Sharks will be a different beast.

Riding Momentum Back Home

Brisbane’s 42–14 thrashing of the Titans reminded fans what this squad can deliver when it clicks. Coach Michael Maguire has kept most of the winning formula intact for this clash. Jack Gosiewski returns from injury, slotting into the interchange, while Jordan Riki marks his 100th NRL game—both inclusions adding spark and experience.

Crucially, all three Origin stars—Reece Walsh, Patrick Carrigan and Payne Haas—are available and named to play. That gives Brisbane a massive boost across the spine, middle and edge, strengthening both defence and attacking rhythm.

The week off has allowed the squad to freshen up and reset—and that may be crucial with a month of heavyweight clashes still to come.

Sharks Reshuffle and Reload

Cronulla come to Brisbane with confidence and cohesion. They edged out the Dragons last week and have made a few strategic tweaks. Siosifa Talakai slides into the centres to replace the injured Mawene Hiroti, giving the backline extra punch. On the bench, Daniel Atkinson rejoins the interchange, offering utility value.

The Sharks sit comfortably inside the top five and will be aiming to continue their push toward finals consistency—even without Origin regulars Nicho Hynes and Cam McInnes.

Match-ups Worth Watching

Halves Showdown: Adam Reynolds and Ezra Mam will run the Broncos’ attack. Reynolds’ control and Mam’s explosiveness offer balance and threat. Expect them to test Cronulla’s defensive edges early and often.

Middle Muscle: With Payne Haas and Patrick Carrigan leading the charge, and Corey Jensen supporting through the middle, Brisbane’s pack is at full strength. They’ll meet resistance from Cronulla’s front-row pairing of Addin Fonua-Blake and Oregon Kaufusi.

Edge Impact: Jordan Riki and Brendan Piakura have a chance to do real damage on the flanks. With Talakai playing out of position, the Broncos may look to exploit mismatches with pace and footwork out wide.

Why It Matters

With just nine rounds remaining, the Broncos can’t afford to drop momentum. A win this weekend would keep them inside the top eight and send a clear message that they can compete with the league’s best—even without their marquee men.

For the Sharks, a win in Brisbane could consolidate a top-four spot and quieten critics questioning their performance against higher-ranked opposition.

Suncorp’s Sunday Surge

Gates open at 11:30 am, and fans can warm up with the NRLW trial match between the Broncos and PNG Orchids kicking off at 11:45 am. The precinct is expected to be buzzing, with family zones, merchandise stalls, and pre-game entertainment bringing back the traditional big-game feel. If history is any guide, a vocal Suncorp crowd could be the difference-maker.

Bronco Backer’s Cheat Sheet

🕑 Kick-off: Sunday, 22 June 2025 – 2:00 pm AEST
📍 Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
🔁 Key Inclusions: Jack Gosiewski returns to the bench; Jordan Riki celebrates his 100th NRL match
✅ Confirmed Playing: Reece Walsh (fullback), Patrick Carrigan (lock), Payne Haas (prop)
🧠 Watch For: Forward pack power plays, controlled halves pairing, edge threats from Riki and Piakura
🎯 What’s at Stake: A chance to solidify a top-eight spot and take down a top-five contender at home

This one’s shaping up as more than just two points on the ladder. It’s about grit, depth, and proving that Brisbane belongs in the business end of the 2025 season — no matter who’s wearing the jersey. If they bring the same fire they showed against the Titans, don’t be surprised if the Sharks leave Suncorp feeling scorched.

Published 18-June-2025

Suncorp Stadium General Manager Alan Graham to Step Down After 20 Years

Alan Graham, the long-serving General Manager of Suncorp Stadium, is preparing to retire after an extraordinary two decades of shaping the venue’s legacy.

Since taking the helm in 2002, Mr Graham has not only overseen the transformation of Suncorp Stadium into one of Australia’s premier sporting and entertainment venues, but he’s also led the stadium through some of its most challenging moments, including the 2011 Queensland floods.

His leadership has seen over 800 events at the 52,500-capacity stadium, from major sports fixtures to world-class concerts, and he leaves behind a legacy of innovation, resilience, and community involvement. Mr Graham’s retirement, set for July 2025, marks the end of an era for Suncorp, a venue he helped cement as a cornerstone of Queensland’s cultural and sporting life.

A Storied Career with Suncorp Stadium

Since being appointed General Manager in 2002, Mr Graham has overseen some of the most significant events in Brisbane’s history, including 27 State of Origin games, the highly successful NRL Magic Round, and numerous international sports events like the Manny Pacquiao vs. Jeff Horn fight. Under his guidance, Suncorp Stadium became not only a hub for rugby, but also a premier venue for concerts, starting with Robbie Williams in 2006 and later hosting global acts such as U2, Taylor Swift, Elton John, and Ed Sheeran.

One of Mr Graham’s notable achievements was introducing large-scale concerts to Suncorp, which changed the way the city experienced entertainment. From international pop stars to rock legends, the stadium has seen it all under his leadership. This innovation has helped bring global attention to Brisbane, elevating the city’s status as a prime destination for both sports and music fans.

Suncorp Stadium General Manager Alan Graham — *Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium*

Navigating Challenges and Building Community Bonds

Throughout his tenure, Mr Graham’s leadership was defined by his ability to handle adversity. Perhaps his most impressive feat was guiding Suncorp Stadium through the 2011 Queensland floods, when the venue was submerged, causing significant damage to its infrastructure.

Despite the setback, Mr Graham and his team restored the stadium in record time, ensuring that only two events were lost. This resilience became a hallmark of his management style, as he continued to lead the stadium through other challenges, including weather-related disruptions and the iconic story of the Artie Beetson statue, which required creative problem-solving to complete.

Beyond the big events, Mr Graham has always placed a strong emphasis on community involvement. He spearheaded initiatives such as the Suncorp Stadium Annual Charity Golf Day and Christmas Day Lunch, both of which have raised substantial funds for local charities and provided meaningful support to disadvantaged Queenslanders. Over the years, these initiatives have become an integral part of the stadium’s identity, reinforcing its role as more than just a venue for entertainment and sports but as a vital part of the local community fabric.

The Road Ahead for Suncorp Stadium

As Mr Graham prepares to retire, ASM Global, the company that manages Suncorp Stadium, is already working on selecting his successor. Harvey Lister, Chairman of ASM Global, praised Mr Graham’s unique contributions to the venue, noting that his departure would be felt across the entire industry. Mr Graham himself reflected on his time at the stadium, remarking that shaping the history of Suncorp Stadium was one of the most meaningful aspects of his career.

Published 12-June-2025

Broncos Break the Slide with Emphatic 44–14 Win Over Titans

After a difficult month of losses, the Brisbane Broncos finally found their rhythm again at Suncorp Stadium, dispatching the Gold Coast Titans 44–14 in front of nearly 40,000 fans. The result ended a four-game losing streak and marked a strong return to form in what was also Mental Health Round—a cause reflected in the Broncos’ striking all-black jerseys.

Walsh Sparks the Attack, Staggs Leads from the Front

Reece Walsh, back after six weeks on the sideline, made an immediate impact. The fullback scored two late tries and added spark throughout the second half. But it was centre Kotoni Staggs who helped set the early tone, crashing over in the first half and delivering one of his strongest performances of the season.

Veteran halfback Adam Reynolds, celebrating his 300th NRL appearance, provided steady leadership and nailed six from eight conversions for a personal tally of 12 points. The milestone added an extra layer to a night that felt, for the first time in weeks, like the Broncos had returned to themselves.
Dominance in the Numbers

Brisbane controlled the match from the outset, building a commanding 28–0 lead by halftime. Across the full 80 minutes, they ran in eight tries to three and completed with 190 carries for 1,833 metres—outpacing the Titans’ 174 carries and 1,570 metres.

Key stats:

Gehamat Shibasaki: two tries
Josiah Karapani (debut): two tries
Corey Jensen and Kotoni Staggs: one try each
Reece Walsh: two second-half tries
Adam Reynolds: 6 goals, 12 points

The match showcased attacking depth and forward efficiency, as Brisbane’s pack consistently won the middle.

Titans Outclassed Early

Gold Coast, still grappling with inconsistency and injuries, were never really in the contest. By the time they found space to score in the second half, the result was all but sealed. Coach Des Hasler admitted post-match that the team was outplayed from the opening sets—a reality reflected in their position at the bottom of the ladder (3 wins, 9 losses).

A Night With Meaning

This was no ordinary home game. Mental Health Round, supported through a jersey partnership with the Black Dog Institute, gave the evening an added layer of purpose. Players and fans alike embraced the message, and the unique black kit drew widespread praise online. For many, it was a reminder of how sport can be a platform for more than competition.

Reynolds’ Milestone Grounded in Performance

Reynolds didn’t seek attention leading into his 300th game, but he let his play speak for him. With calm direction, sharp kicking, and defensive organisation, he played the kind of controlled football that has anchored the Broncos since his arrival.

Final Word for Broncos Fans

This win doesn’t erase the challenges of recent weeks—but it matters. Brisbane showed structure, confidence, and composure, and with key players like Walsh back in the line-up, there’s reason for cautious optimism. It was a strong step forward, made stronger by the meaning behind the jersey and the milestone it honoured.

Published 9-June-2025

Dolphins Eye Top Eight as Dragons Return to Suncorp

The Dolphins are set to host the St George Illawarra Dragons at Suncorp Stadium this Friday night, with both teams vying for a crucial win that could shape their finals aspirations. Currently sitting in 10th place, the Dolphins trail the 8th-placed Dragons by just two competition points. A victory here would not only level the standings but also potentially propel the Dolphins into the top eight, marking a significant milestone in their 2025 campaign.

Momentum from a Memorable Victory

The Dolphins enter this Round 14 clash buoyed by a commanding 44-8 triumph over the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in Round 12. Despite missing key players due to Origin duties and injuries, the team showcased depth and resilience, with standout performances across the park.

Jamayne Isaako was instrumental, contributing a try and successfully converting eight of nine goal attempts, bringing his season tally to 122 points with an impressive 89.5% goal conversion rate. Herbie Farnworth continued his try-scoring streak, now at six consecutive games, while young talents like Jack Bostock and Harrison Graham also crossed the line. Notably, Kurt Donoghoe returned to the field after a severe head clash to score the final try, exemplifying the team’s tenacity.

Dragons’ Recent Form and Challenges

The Dragons have shown signs of resurgence, securing back-to-back wins, including a 20-6 victory over the Newcastle Knights in Round 13. However, their record at Suncorp Stadium remains a concern, with only two wins in their last ten appearances at the venue.

Injuries have also impacted the Dragons’ lineup, with Jaydn Su’a sidelined due to an ankle injury. Luciano Leilua is set to start in his place, while Christian Tuipulotu returns from a hamstring issue to bolster the wing.

Key Matchups and Players to Watch

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (Dolphins): The fullback has a strong record against the Dragons, scoring four tries in two previous encounters.
Clint Gutherson (Dragons): The Dragons’ fullback has been in fine form, with four tries in his last three games.
Isaiya Katoa (Dolphins): The young halfback continues to impress, providing strategic direction and playmaking abilities that have been crucial to the Dolphins’ recent successes.

Statistical Snapshot

Dolphins’ Recent Performance: In their last match against the Bulldogs, the Dolphins scored seven tries and maintained a high completion rate, showcasing their offensive prowess.

Dragons’ Defensive Record: While the Dragons have improved defensively, their struggles at Suncorp Stadium could be a psychological hurdle.

Final Thoughts

This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to solidify their positions in the top eight. The Dolphins, riding high from their recent victory and playing at home, will look to leverage their momentum. Conversely, the Dragons aim to overcome their Suncorp Stadium woes and continue their upward trajectory.

Published 5-June-2025

Brisbane Broncos Eye Redemption at Suncorp in Crucial Derby Clash with Titans

The Brisbane Broncos return to Suncorp Stadium this Saturday night, aiming to halt a four-game losing streak in a high-stakes Queensland derby against the Gold Coast Titans.

The Round 14 showdown, kicking off on 7 June at 7:35 p.m. AEST, also marks a significant milestone for captain Adam Reynolds, who is set to play his 300th NRL match. With both teams struggling for form, this encounter presents a pivotal opportunity for the Broncos to reignite their season in front of their home fans.

Form Slump and Defensive Woes

The Broncos have faced a challenging period, securing only one win in their last seven games and conceding 118 points over the past four matches. This downturn has seen them slip out of the top eight, placing immense pressure on the team to deliver a turnaround performance. The recent 34-6 defeat to the Manly Sea Eagles highlighted defensive frailties and a lack of cohesion on the field.

In the match with the Sea Eagles, the Broncos managed just one try, scored by five-eighth Ezra Mam, and struggled to match Manly’s intensity and execution. The team’s attacking metrics were below par, with only 168 carries and 1,470 run metres compared to the Sea Eagles’ 228 carries and 1,876 run metres. These statistics underscore the need for a more assertive and disciplined performance against the Titans.

Reinforcements and Milestones

A significant boost for the Broncos is the return of star fullback Reece Walsh, who has been sidelined since Round 7 due to a knee injury. His inclusion is expected to add spark to the backline and provide much-needed creativity in attack. Selwyn Cobbo also returns to the wing, while Corey Jensen has been promoted to the starting prop position, with Pat Carrigan shifting to lock.

Captain Adam Reynolds’ 300th game adds an emotional layer to the match. The veteran halfback’s leadership and experience will be crucial as the Broncos seek to navigate this challenging phase. Despite recent criticisms regarding the team’s performance and coaching methods, Reynolds and centre Kotoni Staggs have publicly defended head coach Michael Maguire, emphasizing the importance of internal focus and resilience.

Titans’ Challenges and Opportunities

The Gold Coast Titans are also grappling with form issues, having won just one of their last eight games and conceding an average of 35 points per match during that span. Injuries have compounded their struggles, with key players Jojo Fifita and Sam Verrills sidelined due to broken hands. AJ Brimson, recovering from a concussion, has been named as the 18th man, while Sean Mullany steps in as the new hooker.

Despite these setbacks, the Titans have shown flashes of competitiveness, notably in their recent narrow loss to the Melbourne Storm. Players like Kieran Foran and Jayden Campbell have demonstrated versatility and skill, and the forward battle between Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Payne Haas promises to be a highlight of the match.

Looking Ahead

Both the Broncos and the Titans enter this derby with much at stake.

For the Broncos, a victory would not only commemorate Reynolds’ milestone but also serve as a catalyst to revive their season. The return of key players and the home-ground advantage at Suncorp Stadium provide a platform for a potential turnaround.

The Titans, despite their injury woes, will aim to exploit the Broncos’ recent inconsistencies and secure a morale-boosting win. The match promises to be a fiercely contested battle, with both sides eager to claim bragging rights in this Queensland rivalry.

Fans can anticipate a high-intensity clash filled with personal milestones, strategic battles, and the ever-present desire to ascend the NRL ladder. As the Broncos and Titans prepare to face off, the stage is set for a memorable encounter under the lights of Suncorp Stadium.

Published 6-June-2025

State of Origin Yields 4 Million Containers For Recycling at Suncorp and Other Stadiums

Photo Credit: Containers for Change

State of Origin I was still a win for Queensland, despite the loss on the field, with the event marking four million containers from eight Stadiums Queensland venues, including Suncorp Stadium, recycled through Containers for Change.

The large-scale effort, part of the Containers for Change initiative, encourages recycling through 10-cent refunds for eligible drink containers from thousands of fans, many of whom actively used the clearly marked recycling bins placed throughout the venue.

Community and Environmental Gains

Across the eight major Stadiums Queensland venues, which include Suncorp Stadium, Queensland Country Bank Stadium, The Gabba, and others, the scheme has now seen more than 229 tonnes of container waste diverted from landfill. Stadiums Queensland Chief Executive Todd Harris said the response from attendees has been encouraging, with strong participation at every major event.

The environmental benefits are also measurable. Recycling the four million containers collected during the game has been calculated to reduce greenhouse gas emissions equal to taking 289 cars off the road for a year.

Natalie Roach, Chief Executive of Container Exchange—the group behind Containers for Change—stated that recycling at stadiums is especially important, since containers used outside the home are more likely to end up as litter or in landfill. By placing well-marked bins throughout the venue, it has become easier for Queenslanders to do the right thing without extra effort.

Funds Flow Back Into Queensland

Beyond the environmental impact, the program has also created real benefits for local charities and community groups. Since its launch in 2018, Containers for Change has returned more than $1 billion in refunds to Queenslanders, including $17 million that went directly to not-for-profits and grassroots groups.

Queensland’s Minister for Sport, Tim Mander, acknowledged the role fans played during the match at Suncorp, noting that while the team may not have won the game, the crowd delivered a different kind of victory by supporting recycling efforts. He described the scheme as a practical way for sports venues to give back to the state—not only through environmental action but also by returning value to communities in need.

A Long-Term Win for Stadiums and Fans

The program’s success at Suncorp Stadium is part of a wider trend across Stadiums Queensland’s facilities, which welcomed a record-breaking 5.8 million visitors in the 2023–24 financial year. With each major event generating thousands of drink containers, the impact of continued recycling adds up quickly.

Officials say this isn’t just a short-term campaign. It’s part of a longer-term commitment to sustainability in sport and entertainment, making sure that the excitement of major games doesn’t come at the cost of the environment.

Published 4-June-2025

Wilson and Lynagh Back for Reds in Season-Defining Game at Suncorp

Last week’s defeat to the table topping Brumbies means that Les Kiss’s Queensland Reds will need to bounce back at Suncorp this week to retain their Top 4 place. With only one more game to go before the Super Rugby Pacifica playoffs begin, realistically, the Reds are unlikely to finish higher than 4th but two losses could lead them to miss out on the playoffs. Although, they should be strong favourites for their final game against Fijian Drua.

The 4th position can provide a second bite at the cherry; if seeds one and two win their quarter finals, a loss for the 4th seed would mean they would remain in the competition anyway.

The Reds talisman and Wallabies skipper, Harry Wilson, returns after his broken arm and Tom Lynagh also makes a timely comeback.

The Hurricanes are unbeaten in their last four games, including a draw with the Force, and an away win against the Brumbies. Their win against the Highlanders last week, however, only came about with an 81st-minute Roigard try, given the Highlanders are bottom of the Super Ladder.

This gives the Reds some hope that they can defend their castle in this crucial arm wrestle; however, a 4th spot with the benefits of a potential second bite at the cherry is also within sight for the Canes.

Bad news: The Hurricanes have won 13 of the last 14 games against the Reds. The return of Wilson and Lynagh along with the Hurricanes under par performance last week, gives the Reds a strong chance if their front row can be competitive.

Their nailbiting win against the Highlanders, came at a big cost to the Hurricanes. Brayden Iose and Riley Higgins are out for the rest of the season. Ngane Punivai will also likley miss the game at Suncorp with an injury.

The Reds – Hurricanes game is part of a double header at Suncorp tonight, 23 May. The Wallaroos play Canada kick off at 4:55 p.m., with the Reds running out for a 7:35 p.m. kick off. If you can’t make it to Suncorp, 9GEM and Stan will broadcast the game live.

From Penal Settlement to Lang Park – Tracking the Transformation of the Suncorp Stadium

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Sampajanna, CC BY-SA 4.0

Did you know that Lang Park in Milton was once a penal settlement, a cemetery and a circus before transforming into a world-class sports centre, now popularly known as the Suncorp Stadium?

Before the 1840s, the Milton grounds were once part of an established Moreton Bay Penal Settlement. When the land became accessible, free settlers turned part of the area into the North Brisbane Burial Grounds.

The North Brisbane Burial Grounds

From 1843 to 1875, this cemetery was the main burial site of the city, which inevitably became unsustainable. To address the overcrowding, burials were no longer done at the North Brisbane Burial Grounds following the opening of a new cemetery in Toowong. Essentially, the old burial site became redundant and under-maintained.

North Brisbane Burial Grounds Lang Park — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/Agriculture And Stock Department, Publicity Branch*

By 1910, the Queensland Government planned the site’s redevelopment as a recreational area to cater to the city’s growing population thus the North Brisbane Burial Grounds was sealed off. Relatives were asked to move their deceased loved ones’ remains at the expense of the government.

Renamed To Lang Park, the Recreational Grounds

By 1914, the site was renamed after Reverend John Dunmore Lang, an advocate of Australian republicanism and the founder of the Presbyterian Scots in New South Wales. He was also instrumental in helping migrants move to Brisbane.

John Lang for Lang Park — *Photo Credit: National Library of Australia*

During World War I, Lang Park was a familiar parade ground for the locals. Other events, such as the Wirths’ Circus and the athletics carnivals, were also mounted on this open area.

The Queensland Amateur Athletics Association then leased the park for its sports events. Lang Park became the official home of the Queensland Soccer Council and the Latrobe Soccer Club until the mid-1930s.

Lang Park soccer — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons/John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland*

By the 1950s, the Queensland Rugby League chose Lang Park as its headquarters. With additional funding from the government, improvements were undertaken to provide the site with the spectators’ area, the Frank Burke Stand.

Three decades later, Lang Park hosted NSWRL/ARL games but by the 1990s the leagues moved on to other locations due to a number of issues and factors, including the opening of the ANZ Stadium on Kessels Road in Nathan.

Lang park rugby — *Photo Credit: Mdmanser/Wikipedia/CC BY 2.0*

The Suncorp Stadium

In the late 1990s, Brisbane officials hatched a $280-million plan for a state-of-the-art stadium in Milton. During this time, Lang Park was already sponsored by Suncorp-Metway and its stadium was renamed the Suncorp-Metway.

Following the upgrades, Suncorp-Metway Stadium was again renamed and simplified to the Suncorp Stadium, now boasting a capacity of 52,500. As part of its expansion, the trolley-bus depot within the site had to be demolished along with a number of buildings on Milton Road.

The site’s redevelopment was finished in time for the 2001 State of Origin Series. The very first game hosted at the new Suncorp Stadium was between the Brisbane Broncos and the Newcastle Knights. The 2003 Rugby World Cup was hosted at the stadium and has since become the traditional home of the state’s rugby league.

By 2006, the Suncorp Stadium hosted its first concert with Robbie Williams performing for two nights to a full house.

The Suncorp Stadium is marked for another major redevelopment in the coming years as Brisbane prepares to host the 2032 Olympics.

Published 30 March 2023