In a significant move, the Yagara Magandjin Aboriginal Corporation (YMAC) and the Save Victoria Park group are urging the federal environment minister to recognize Victoria Park as a site of cultural importance, which would safeguard it from development. Victoria Park, covering 60 hectares, holds deep historical significance for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. YMAC representative Gaja Kerry Charlton expressed concerns over the presence of ancient trees, artifacts, and potential ancestral remains at the site.
A federal government spokesperson acknowledged receipt of the request for designation under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act, noting that the application is under review, which includes consultations with concerned parties. If constructed, the stadium will host the Olympic and Paralympic opening and closing ceremonies and later become home to AFL and cricket in Queensland.
Infrastructure development for the Olympics has sparked political debates in Queensland. Former premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced plans to refurbish the Gabba stadium, which faced backlash from local residents over potential displacement and high costs. After losing to the Liberal National Party, new premier David Crisafulli redirected efforts to build a new stadium on Victoria Park after an internal review, exempting the project from standard planning regulations to accelerate completion.
Opposition to the stadium has emerged from local communities worried about green space loss and cultural heritage preservation. Both state and federal governments have committed to consulting with Indigenous groups regarding the plans. Brisbane's Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed confidence that the stadium will proceed, predicting ongoing efforts to delay the project.
A federal government spokesperson acknowledged receipt of the request for designation under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act, noting that the application is under review, which includes consultations with concerned parties. If constructed, the stadium will host the Olympic and Paralympic opening and closing ceremonies and later become home to AFL and cricket in Queensland.
Infrastructure development for the Olympics has sparked political debates in Queensland. Former premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced plans to refurbish the Gabba stadium, which faced backlash from local residents over potential displacement and high costs. After losing to the Liberal National Party, new premier David Crisafulli redirected efforts to build a new stadium on Victoria Park after an internal review, exempting the project from standard planning regulations to accelerate completion.
Opposition to the stadium has emerged from local communities worried about green space loss and cultural heritage preservation. Both state and federal governments have committed to consulting with Indigenous groups regarding the plans. Brisbane's Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed confidence that the stadium will proceed, predicting ongoing efforts to delay the project.
