Olympic organisers grilled at Senate inquiry

As the Paris 2024 torch was lit in the birthplace of the Olympics, Brisbane’s Olympic organisers were preparing to front a Senate inquiry into the city’s preparedness to host the games in just eight years’ time.

The International Olympic Committee vice president John Coates was among those who appeared before the inquiry today.

Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie said “not a sod has been turned across the city, and we’re still arguing about where we’re going to host this”.

Olympic organisers fronted the Senate committee today.

Appearing by phone, Coates said: “I think the concerns raised are real, but the concerns need to be directed to the Queensland government.

“The reality is that the IOC has no control over the political position in Australia, both state and federally.”

The Queensland government initially proposed a $3 billion rebuild of the Gabba, which was widely shouted down.

An independent review led by former Brisbane lord mayor Graham Quirk recommended a stadium be built at Victoria Park to serve as the host venue.

Quirk also called for the Gabba to be demolished and turn into greenspace.

Former lord mayors Campbell Newman, Jim Soorley and Sallyanne Atkinson have all rejected the Victoria Park proposal.

Premier Steven Miles instead announced the government had opted to upgrade the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, the Gabba and Suncorp Stadium and host the Games across the three venues.

Legislation was tabled in Queensland parliament today to establish an independent body to deliver Olympic venues in time for Brisbane 2032.

The Independent Games Delivery Authority will make decisions going forward.