Thurston backing bid for Olympics
EXCLUSIVE
MAROONS legend Johnathan Thurston has backed the Queensland Olympics bid, saying Cairns and regional Queensland should get behind the SEQ 2032 Games and the benefits it offers the Far North and the rest of the state.
Thurston and long-serving Cowboys chairman and Townsville businessman Laurence Lancini have thrown their support behind the SEQ 2032 Olympics and Paralympics proposal and the opportunities it could create Cairns and Townsville.
With a new Townsville stadium as well as the Cowboys Community, Training and High Performance Centre, Thurston said North Queensland was well placed to take full advantage of an Olympic Games.
“From day one, North Queensland Stadium has been identified in the SEQ 2032 proposal as a prime location to host preliminary events,” Thurston said.
He said that Cairns, Townsville and the two regions for should get behind “this golden opportunity”.
“As a region, we’re ready to attract visitors, secure international teams for pre-Games training and showcase the many businesses, skills and products we have here in North Queensland.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to promote our local businesses and tourism operators, but also inspire and engage our young people.”
“Sport brings people together and there’s no bigger sporting event … than the Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
Mr Lancini said the benefits of a 2032 Olympic Games would extend well beyond the three-week sporting event.
“The Games’ profile and power could kick start a decade of business and investor confidence, job creation and positive international exposure for North Queensland in the lead up to 2032,” he said.
“The SEQ 2032 proposal presents an amazing opportunity for our region, and our local leaders, businesses and community should be pushing to ensure North Queensland makes the most of it.”