The countdown has begun! In just seven short years, the eyes of the world will turn to south-east Queensland as the Olympic Games arrive, bringing with them an unprecedented opportunity for local businesses.
While the excitement is palpable, especially with Logan securing its promised indoor courts facility, a critical question looms: Is our city truly ready to capitalise on this global spectacle?
The Olympics, second only to the FIFA World Cup in television viewership, presents a monumental chance for Logan’s economy.
Beyond the immediate boons for catering, entertainment, transport, and retail, one sector stands out as both the most crucial and the most overlooked: accommodation.
With athletes, support teams, fervent supporters, and legions of tourists descending upon our region, the demand for short-stay lodging will skyrocket.
Yet, Logan currently boasts a mere 318 overnight beds across the entire city.
This stark reality is alarming, particularly given Logan’s strategic location at the crossroads of major transport corridors.
Our region should already be a hub for quality 3.5 to 5-star accommodation.
Despite sustained efforts and investment incentives from the Logan Office of Economic Development, hotel developers have shown little interest.
It beggars’ belief that at a recent Olympic legacy forum, accommodation barely registered on the radar of focus groups for required infrastructure. H
ave we become so accustomed to visitors staying elsewhere that we’ve forgotten the immense potential of a thriving accommodation industry, an industry that directly employs countless locals?
Back in 2019, before the Olympic announcement, the Logan Office of Economic Development projected a need for 65,000 room nights by 2036.
This translates to an astonishing 650 new accommodation facilities, each offering 100 rooms, to meet the anticipated demand. Such growth isn’t just about beds; it’s about a wave of employment opportunities across construction, manufacturing, IT, front office, housekeeping, food and beverage, maintenance, and myriad supply chain industries. We’re talking about a significant boost in jobs and traineeships for our community.
Why aren’t these developments already in the pipeline? While the economic uncertainties of 2020-2021 undoubtedly played a role, now is the time for all stakeholders to look forward.
We must collectively decide what kind of experience we want to offer Olympic visitors. Logan has a unique opportunity to proudly showcase its rich diversity of cultures, allowing international guests to find a personal connection.
More importantly, we must provide them with comfortable, accessible places to stay, highlighting our excellent connectivity to surrounding areas.
Tourism is a powerful, multi-faceted revenue generator. It’s time for every industry in Logan to rally behind this critical sector.
Investing in accommodation isn’t just about the Olympics; it’s about building a sustainable, prosperous future for our city.
Let’s seize this moment and ensure Logan is not only ready for 2032 but thrives long after the Olympic flame has been extinguished.
