Hope high as hinterland towns could see 2032 games up close
Woombye and several other Hinterland towns are in contention for a front row view to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Attendees at the most recent Woombye Community & Business Association (WCBA) monthly meeting heard details from Grantley Switzer, Sunshine Coast Program Lead - Brisbane 2032 Olympic & Paralympic Games.
Several events are confirmed for the Sunshine Coast with most occurring closer to the coast. But the road cycling race, which is up to 260km long for the men and 160km for the women, may traverse through many towns especially on the Hinterland side. "Unlike the marathon running race which generally seeks out a flat course, cyclist thrive in the challenge of hills" said Grantley. "They will most likely follow a course up the Blackall Range and will need to come down somewhere? One proposed route includes the race going through the heart of Woombye!". Grantley emphasised that the route is yet to be confirmed by the IOC (International Olympic Committee) and that several proposed routes will be considered.
The Mountain Bike event, one of the most affordable events to attend, will be held at a yet to be constructed Mountain Bike Centre. The Sunshine Coast Council (SCC) has acquired properties adjacent to the Parklands Conversation Park (just north of Nambour) to build the venue. In all there will be two days of competition for this event. Other events nearer to the coast are proposed to include the marathon, the race walk, kiteboarding, and football (soccer). Several other possibilities are still being considered. Final decisions about sports to be included and their venues will be confirmed by the IOC later this year, however routes for road based events may not be finalised for a couple of years.
When asked about how Woombye and smaller towns can be involved, Grantley made several comments. "Bring a celebration-vibe to your local community. Look for employment and supply chain opportunities. Queensland will need 45,000 volunteers statewide, with most needed in south-east Queensland. Help tourists who may need assistance or support," were some suggestions.
The Games Legacy will be significant for the Sunshine Coast. Rail transport is guaranteed to expand from Beerwah to Caloundra with commitments to extend to Birtinya. Transport service are planned to significantly improve to the Maroochydore CBD and the airport to include The Wave.
The Wave is one of the major infrastructure legacy projects for the Sunshine Coast that will improve the way people travel. The Sunshine Coast Stadium, which currently seats 1000 will be improved to seat up to 11,000. Grass seating will still be available on the north and south ends.
The Maroochydore Arena, yet to be built, will seat over 6000 and is being considered to host several 2032 Games events. The Athlete Village will be in Maroochydore and comprise a number of towers and other ancillary facilities. After the Games, they will convert to residential living.
Grantley cautiously warned to anticipate some disruption around the time of the 2032 Games.
"There will be traffic redirection for events. This may frustrate some, but this opportunity is not just a once in a generation, it is a once-in-forever for the Sunshine Coast and we will be here to experience it. Embrace the celebration!"
Conversely, business opportunities will be plentiful. Jobs will increase and tourism will boom. The question is how to capitalise on the moment? Temporary fencing, graphic designers, and transport services were just a few of the needs anticipated to be in high demand. Interested businesses are encouraged to visit the Brisbane 2032 Procurement Portal website.
Grantley also said school holidays were likely to be adjusted in 2032 to incorporate the Games. The opening ceremony is scheduled for Friday July 23, 2032. Holidays will commence around this time.
