The heavy lifting is now complete on the Pandanus plant-inspired roof of the North Queensland Stadium with the last of 36 roof trusses being craned into place this morning.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the North Queensland Stadium roof was one of the most iconic parts of the venue and the installation of the final truss signalled construction works nearing completion.

“Whether you’re looking out from Castle Hill or driving up Saunders Street, this entire community can see and feel this world class stadium coming together,” the Premier said.

“This world class venue will put Townsville on the map for major events, I know that there will be no better place to watch Sir Elton John or the Cowboys next year than right here in North Queensland.”

Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said the stadium’s progress was exciting.

“This stadium is going to be an absolute game changer so it’s exciting for the Townsville community to be able to see it taking shape before their eyes,” Mr Tudge said.

“There’s no doubt the stadium will become an events centre piece that will be enjoyed for many years to come.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said installation of the trusses had been undertaken by 30 local workers.

“The North Queensland Stadium is being built for North Queenslanders, by North Queenslanders.

“Installing the roof has been a carefully calculated operation because each of the 36 trusses of the roof has a different geometry, but it’s all come together safely and smoothly and will stand the test of time,” he said.

“The trusses are made from Australian steel and were trucked in and assembled on site before being lifted into place.

“Additionally, 488 businesses have now been engaged in the extended supply chain for this project, so the flow-on economic benefits for Townsville are quite significant.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said the pandanus inspired roof was specially designed to withstand North Queensland’s extreme weather.

“The roof of the North Queensland Stadium is unique, and the complex design and construction of this structure is no less than an engineering masterpiece,” Mr de Brenni said.

“We’ve worked with the experts at James Cook University’s Cyclone Testing Station, who have done extensive wind-load testing to make sure the roof can withstand the uniquely North Queensland environment.

“The design means the stadium will be one of the most easily recognisable in the world, a big part of the attraction for sponsors and events.”

Hi-tech UV-resistant Teflon-coated fabric is now being fitted over the peaked roof sections and is expected to be completed in December 2019.

Federal Minister for Youth and Sport Richard Colbeck said the Government is delivering on the national Sport 2030 plan, which highlights the importance of sport infrastructure to the overall economy.

“Venues like this are jobs magnets, particularly in regional cities like Townville, and I’m pleased to see strong progress on such a vital piece of economic and sporting infrastructure.”

Federal Member for Herbert Phillip Thompson said it’s been exciting to see the stadium really take shape over the last few months.

“As every day passes by the Stadium is getting bigger and better, as local workers put the finishing touches on the project,” he said.

“The unique eye-catching design is sure to become a Townsville icon, which will take place on the world stage.”

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill is excited to see the roof now dominating the city skyline.

“We’re a major step closer to completing one of Townsville’s most valuable assets with the ability to attract both local and major international events,” she said.

“The opening Sir Elton John Concert on 29 February 2020, then the first North Queensland Cowboy’s home game on 13 March 2020 will really raise the roof and give North Queenslanders something to celebrate.”

North Queensland Stadium is a joint project of the Queensland Government, Australian Government and Townsville City Council, and is supported by both the National Rugby League and the North Queensland Cowboys.
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The stadium forms part of the Townsville City Deal signed in December 2016.