Regardless of your views on LNP – Liberal National Party decisions surrounding the Brisbane 2032 Games, I’m grateful (and somewhat relieved) to have a strong leader taking charge with a clear plan. Whether it’s the right plan remains to be seen, but at least we have one. It’s time for the debate to end and for everyone to unite as one, and make it happen!
Over the past 12 months, it may seem like I’ve done little but talk about ‘the Olympics’ and ‘the Gabba.’ Perhaps my interest has become an obsession? While much of my focus has indeed been on the Olympics at the Gabba, my true, unexplainable passion lies in unlocking the untapped potential of the Woolloongabba Precinct.
Although I can’t fully articulate the reasons behind my fascination, I genuinely believe it’s one of Brisbane’s most important suburbs to get right. Its expansion will play a pivotal role in shaping the city’s future.
Following David Crisafulli’s media release, I was thrilled to hear that the Brisbane Live Arena will move forward—albeit after the Games. It’s difficult to put into words the mix of emotions I feel, knowing that my collaboration with HAL Architects has played a role in bringing attention to this transformative site.
With Brisbane’s new stadium set to be located at Victoria Park, what will become of the Gabba?
In anticipation of @DavidChrisafulli’s upcoming Victoria Park announcement, I collaborated with WILDStudio to explore a potential scenario for the Gabba’s future — one that envisions its demolition and restoration as a vibrant, breathable greenspace for the community. Their vision presents an urban oasis amidst the inevitable high-density expansion of the Woolloongabba Precinct.
Regrettably, I didn’t have the time to explore some of my more ambitious possibilities of ‘what lies beneath,’ as I must now shift my focus back to paid work. Still, I hope these renders inspire curiosity and spark conversation about what this small pocket of Woolloongabba.
Woolloongabba undoubtedly faces significant masterplanning and infrastructure challenges that require expertise far beyond my own, but this site holds immense potential to become the heartbeat for the precinct.
While all attention will likely shift to ‘building the Games,’ I anticipate that this site may be put on ice until 2033. However, with ‘the Gabba’ now officially off the table, we have a unique opportunity for thoughtful and strategic planning of the Woolloongabba precinct. It’s time to shape this space into something truly transformative for the city’s future.
All images are copyright: creative.threshold
