CITY PREPARES FOR FIGHT TO REMEMBER
THE State Government has confirmed Australian boxing’s ‘superfight’ between Jeff Horn and Tim Tszyu has been locked in for Townsville.
Minister State Development, Tourism and Innovation Kate Jones confirmed the fight, which had been scheduled for April 22 until it was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, will be held at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
“This fight will be a huge event for North Queensland,” Ms Jones said, adding a date was yet to be confirmed.
Fight promoter Dean Lonergan said Townsville’s new, state-of-the-art stadium was the perfect venue.
“We’ve got a great relationship with the Queensland Government and Townsville City Council who have been very supportive in ensuring we can deliver this event for the region,” he said.
“This was never going anywhere. Queensland Country Bank Stadium is a brand new, world class venue.
“Queenslanders are a parochial bunch and we know the people of Townsville will be vocal supporters of Jeff. We can’t wait.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said the fight would help in the region’s economic recovery.
“The Palaszczuk Government has worked closely with Dean Lonergan and his team to navigate the COVID-19 situation and ensure that this event goes ahead and stays in Townsville,” he said.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said it would be a sporting event to remember.
“Townsville City Council is proud to partner with Tourism and Events Queensland to bring, what promises to be, a blockbuster event to our city,” Cr Hill said.
“I can think of no better sporting facility in Australia to hold this event than our very own world-class Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
“Not only will this event provide a real shot in the arm for local businesses, especially our accommodation providers and hospitality venues, it’s going to be a great morale booster.”