The people of Logan have every right to be questioning just how “regional” the Southeast Queensland bid for the Olympics really was.
In the lead up, we were told that Logan was prime positioned to receive a new white water facility in Park Ridge. This will instead be built in Redlands.
It is true that we should be excited about being in the heart of the biggest show on the globe come 2032. There’s a positive energy that comes with that, and we’ll no doubt be pumping as a city when that time comes.
It is also true that we have a right to demand our share of legacy from this regional pie – whether that be infrastructure, facilities or business success.
Now that the Olympics has been confirmed, it’s time for our leaders, our mayor and state members to fight for their territory to ensure this massive event has a positive impact on the entire region.
Now is the time for our tourism leaders to crow louder than they ever have about what this region has to offer visitors.
Now is the time for all of us to take a pragmatic approach to growth, to determine what roads, bridges, buildings and other legacy items we need in order to live up to our standing as one of the country’s fastest-growing regions.
The federal government has promised to stump up half the money for this magnificent event, so let’s stand tall to ensure we’re getting our fair share.
The Olympics is about a lot more than tickets to see the fastest, strongest and most skillful people on the planet.
In our case, it’s about providing an entire region an opportunity to become one of the most liveable places on Earth.
We choose to live here because we love our suburbs and our city.
Be proud, and demand the best for future generations. An Olympics is something that can help us do that with the utmost of success.
