Local know-how is key to stadium win
WHEN Matt Clifford first walked onto the construction site of what would become Townsville’s stellar stadium, he never thought he’d be overseeing the build of a future State of Origin stage.
The Mendi Constructions supervisor was the first person to walk onto the site of what would become the world-class Queensland Country Bank Stadium, and the last man to leave after years of hard work.
Mr Clifford, the father of former Cowboys player Jake Clifford, remembers the exact day he arrived on site, after the local building business scored the development contract.
“(It) would have been September 1, 2017 … we had about 30 people on site,” he said.
“We did all the sewerage, electrical, foundations, stormwater, and lastly the field.
“To have a locally owned business do over $30 million of work there is amazing.”
Mr Clifford said he never expected the stadium he helped build, would host a State of Origin game.
“I think it’s a fantastic advertisement, this game goes well over the
UK and the world. To promote Townsville through this game is an amazing opportunity for Townsville.
“Especially in the way all this Covid (has unfolded), we are very fortunate enough to avoid all the issues.”
Despite his Queensland roots, Mr Clifford made sure he was cheering on the sideline for his son’s debut in New South Wales last week.
Jake Clifford, the former Cowboys halfback, made the switch to Newcastle Knights last month.
Clifford had already signed a two-year deal with Newcastle to start next season, but packed up his life in North Queensland and headed south in time for their clash against Paramatta on Friday.
He worked his way up the footy ranks from the Tully Tigers, through the Northern Pride and graduated into the Cowboys system.
“It wasn’t the result he wanted,” Mr Clifford said of the 40-4 thrashing last week.
“But it’s a very they’ve welcomed family very warmly.
“He just needs to try and get used to the cold now.” friendly town, Jake and our