Chief backs game plan

HOPES are high that extra eyes on Cairns will translate into funding for a rectangular stadium as NRL giants the Rabbitohs take on the Cowboys at Barlow Park.

The pre-season clash will bring attention to the arena on Saturday, right when pressure has never been greater for Cairns to finally get a proper stadium.

Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel said Cairns deserved a venue to attract top-tier sporting events but, like facilities in other regional centres, it had to service the community.

“All you need to do is look to Mackay, Sunshine Coast and Coffs Harbour,” he said.

“What they have is a wonderful piece of community infrastructure which is used.

“There’s not necessarily a national team which plays out of there week-in, week-out, but the facility is there to be able to attract national games, (such as) the NRL, Super Rugby, ALeague or the like.

“Cairns certainly deserves that, and the people of Cairns deserve that.”

Long-term stadium campaigners John Moore, 84, and former Cairns mayor Kevin Byrne, 72, hoped Cairns Regional Council would announce a massive upgrade.

“We met recently with two senior council officers on their plans to source federal funding to match state and council funding,” Mr Moore said.

“Probably for the first time ever, I’m confident now we are moving in the right direction.

“Now we need to get funding from the federal government; I am not at liberty to go into details as to what council is proposing but their plan will satisfy everyone.”

Mr Byrne said Cairns was ideal to find a space on the national sporting landscape.

“Barlow Park could be an incredible jewel in our crown; we can also pitch it to host rock concerts such as Elton John or events like the 2027 World Rugby Cup,” he said.

Council CEO Mica Martin said state and federal funding opportunities were being investigated.

“Options for an events precinct at the Barlow Park/ Showgrounds are being prepared (and) these will be presented to the mayor and councillors at the earliest opportunity … ” Ms Martin said.