Where were you 6.30pm, Wednesday 21 July? The moment Queensland’s Olympic dreams became reality.
Brisbane is now confirmed as host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and for cities like Logan the opportunities are vast and the benefits stand to be huge.
Ahead of the announcement we held our collective breath. Just like we did in ’96 with Kieren Perkins and in 2000 with Cathy Freeman.
And just like those memorable Olympic moments, we got the win, triggering a new dawn for our sunrise state.
Hosting an Olympics rests comfortably in the realms of the Palaszczuk Government’s economic recovery plan, which is all about generating jobs, boosting our economy and creating healthier communities.
The infrastructure that will come with these games will change the face of Queensland and leave a legacy of lasting benefits long after the final race has run.
With an 11-year lead-up we’ve got time to squeeze every drop out of this occasion, and our government will be working tirelessly to make that happen.
For Logan that will mean smart transport solutions, new community facilities, and all the employment opportunities that come with preparing for the world’s biggest sporting event.
The economic windfall from Brisbane 2032 is set to be significant: $8.1 billion for Queensland; $17.61 billion for Australia.
The job numbers are even more impressive, with 91,600 full-time equivalent job years to be created in Queensland, and 122,900 FTE job years nationally.
In the latest games report commissioned by our government, health and community benefits are estimated to be $3.5 billion for Queensland and $9.1 billion for Australia.
And although the pandemic remains prevalent, Queensland will build from an enviable position, with our economic growth leading the nation and unemployment at its lowest rate in 12 years.
One thing you can’t put a figure on though is the motivation a Queensland Olympics will create for our local sporting superstars.
For many talent youngsters, the dream of competing in a hometown Olympics will drive them with their sporting pursuits for the many years ahead.
Queensland has already shown itself more than capable of delivering successful major events, and Brisbane 2032 will be no exception.
We can’t wait to welcome the best to Queensland, and to deliver the best for communities like Logan.
