What’s happening?
The Queensland Government has officially launched the 2032 Delivery Plan, providing a clear and comprehensive roadmap to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games—along with the legacy it intends to leave for the entire state. Notably, Mackay and the Whitsunday region are set to play a leading role, hosting events and benefiting from substantial infrastructure investment, tourism stimulus, and grassroots sport funding.
As Premier David Crisafulli declared, “These Games are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver an infrastructure, tourism and grassroots sports legacy to benefit all of Queensland… and through better connectivity and the right infrastructure, Mackay and the Whitsundays will be ready to open their doors not only to the Games but to more tourists, more employment and more opportunities.”
Why it matters?
The Plan solidifies Mackay’s position as a key Olympic host city for the second-ever Summer Olympics cricket competition. Cricket matches are proposed to be held at Harrup Park, which will receive significant upgrades, while the nearby Whitsundays will co-host Olympic sailing, showcasing the region’s natural beauty to the world.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander emphasised the legacy impact: “This Plan delivers sports facilities not only for athletes competing at an international level, but for Queenslanders of all ages, abilities and localities who play sport in their communities.”
The Games will also strengthen tourism, with Minister for Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell noting: “Training and preliminary events will be happening in the lead up to the Games, increasing local visitors and spending among local operators.
“During the Games itself, hundreds of millions of eyes will be on Mackay and the Whitsundays, delivering an unparalleled opportunity to sell Queensland to all those potential visitors.”
Local Impact
The Mackay-Whitsunday region is set to benefit from both Games-time activity and long-term investment:
– Harrup Park will be transformed into an international-standard cricket venue.
– Sailing events will be held in the Whitsundays, offering a global stage for one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.
– Major Bruce Highway upgrades at Goorganga Plains will improve connectivity and safety.
– Grassroots sports funding through the $250 million Games On! program will strengthen local community clubs.
– The region will also benefit from tourism initiatives like the proposed Airlie Beach SkyWay, aligned with Queensland’s 20-year tourism strategy, Destination 2045.
Local MP for Mackay Nigel Dalton highlighted the region’s preparedness and enthusiasm: “This is our chance to show the world everything Mackay has to offer.
“Whether it’s adventure tourism such as wakeboarding and river rafting, or cultural tourism like our South Sea Islander huts, Mackay is playing on the front foot.”
By the numbers:
– $7.1 billion: Allocated for Olympic venue capital works across Queensland, including regional hubs like Mackay.
– $9 billion: Committed to upgrading the Bruce Highway from Brisbane to Cairns, including Goorganga Plains.
– $250 million: To be invested in grassroots community sport across Queensland via the Games On! program.
Zoom In
Mackay isn’t just hosting matches—it’s part of a broader Games legacy that includes venue upgrades, transport enhancements, and an economic surge driven by tourism and events. Harrup Park’s transformation puts the city on the map for elite cricket. The nearby Whitsundays will welcome global sailing teams and media coverage, offering unbeatable scenic value.
Minister Powell added: “The green and gold runway leading up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games is the perfect opportunity to bring home the gold for Queensland.”
Zoom Out
The 2032 Delivery Plan is being executed by the newly formed Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority. Backed by a 100 Day Review, community consultation, and expert assessments, the Plan includes:
– New stadiums and upgraded precincts in Brisbane and South East Queensland.
– Athlete Villages on the Sunshine and Gold Coasts.
– Regional Games venues in Cairns, Townsville, Rockhampton, Wide Bay-Burnett, and Toowoomba.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said: “The 2032 Delivery Plan delivers legacy beyond the Games with the largest infrastructure investment in Queensland’s history.”
Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee President Andrew Liveris added: “We have been handed a gift to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032… The time for talking has passed. Let’s put the plan into place.”
What to Look For Next?
With the Plan now in action, Mackay residents can expect announcements around construction timelines for Harrup Park upgrades, community engagement around tourism opportunities, and how local clubs can apply for Games On! funding. Operational alignment with the IOC and international sport federations will also shape the final competition schedule.
As Games Authority Chairman Stephen Conry said: “Queensland now has clarity and we are excited about the way forward.”
For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/delivering2032.
