Chance for region to make its tourism mark

News the AFL Grand Final is coming to Brisbane in October is the perfect chance for Moreton Bay tourism and hospitality operators to showcase the best the region has to offer, Moreton Bay Region Tourism and Industry (MBRIT) CEO Shane Newcombe says.

Mr Newcombe says with many visitors likely to come to Brisbane for the match from other parts of Queensland, the event has the potential to attract those visitors to Moreton Bay, just a short drive away.

“We have so many great things to offer visitors and people who live in the region,” he says.

Attracting day-trippers

“Being only a short trip from Brisbane, there’s a unique opportunity to invite Grand Final visitors here for an overnight stay or a daytrip as part of their visit to the area.”

Mr Newcombe says wineries, restaurants, cafes and the region’s natural beauty are obvious reasons for AFL tourists to venture out of Brisbane.

“We’ve got beautiful beaches and stunning hinterlands – there’s something for everyone.”

Boost for the region

Moreton Bay Region Mayor Peter Flannery hopes the Gabba Grand Final – to be held outside Victoria for the first time in its 123-year history, will also focus the attention of southern clubs and investors on Queensland.

“The AFL grand final being announced at the Gabba couldn’t have come at a better time for Moreton Bay Region,” Mayor Flannery says.

“Aussie Rules football is one of the fastest-growing sports locally, and we’re investing big money to ensure our infrastructure is keeping pace with its surging popularity.

“We’ve invested $45 million in total over the past 10 years, including the Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex at Burpengary and the South Pine Sports Complex at Brendale.

Proven track record

“Moreton Bay is now home to three of the best AFL-standard precincts outside of the Gabba, with the impressive new $18.8 million Nathan Road Sports Complex (home to the Redcliffe Tigers) opening at Kippa-Ring in July,” he says.

Mayor Flannery says the region has a proven track record of successfully hosting AFL preseason matches and AFLW home and away fixtures for the Brisbane Lions men’s and women’s teams.

“Not only that, but it’s hugely exciting for all the young boys and girls out there who dream of one day running out on the sacred turf in a Lions guernsey,” he says.

“Tayla Harris is one of our most successful homegrown talents, hailing from Cashmere, and we hope this will spark a hundred more Taylas to strap on the boots and have a kick.”

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