The Yagara Magandjin Aboriginal Corporation has filed a legal request to designate Victoria Park as a culturally significant site, aiming to prevent a planned 63,000-seat stadium from being built, citing concerns over ecological history and ancestral remains.
Indigenous Group Challenges Brisbane Olympic Stadium Development on Cultural Grounds
Indigenous Group Challenges Brisbane Olympic Stadium Development on Cultural Grounds
Legal action has been initiated by an Aboriginal group to halt the construction of a major stadium on culturally significant land for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.
An Aboriginal organization is pushing back against the construction of a new stadium intended for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, deeming the land to be culturally significant. The landmark stadium, expected to seat 63,000, is slated for development at Victoria Park, a sprawling 60-hectare area announced by the Queensland government earlier this year with an estimated cost of A$3.8 billion (approximately $2.5 billion USD).
The Yagara Magandjin Aboriginal Corporation (YMAC), in collaboration with the Save Victoria Park group, actively petitioned the federal environment minister to recognize the park's cultural significance, a decision that could halt any development projects on the land. YMAC spokesperson Gaja Kerry Charlton emphasized the importance of the site, highlighting the presence of ancient trees, ancestral artefacts, and potential ancient remains that could be affected.
The federal government acknowledged receipt of this request and confirmed that its departments are evaluating the application while engaging the involved parties - including the Queensland government and project proponents. If the stadium construction proceeds, it is expected to host opening and closing ceremonies for the Olympics and Paralympics, before transitioning to a venue for AFL and cricket events.
The planning of the stadium sparked significant political debate, with previous proposals to renovate the old Gabba stadium facing backlash from residents concerned about displacement and high taxpayer costs. The latest developments, which also include a potential exemption from standard planning regulations, have sparked protests from local communities worried about the environmental impact and loss of green space.
Brisbane's Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated there is substantial community backing for the stadium, asserting, "Ultimately, this is going to happen," while acknowledging that there will be attempts to disrupt the progression of the project. As discussions concerning indigenous engagement continue, the outcome remains uncertain regarding the future of Victoria Park amidst mounting tensions and community concerns.
