Proposal for 7000-seat arena on Sunshine Coast

An Australian development company has unveiled a $1 billion proposal to build a 7000-seat arena and five-star hotel at Maroochydore on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.

The Horizon Centre proposal from Walker Corporation has been submitted to the Queensland Government’s Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.

It also features an athletes’ village for the Games, and capacity to host Olympic events and accommodate up to 1400 people during the global spectacle.

If the green light is given to the project, the 7000-seat multi-format arena would be a major asset for the Sunshine Coast region, with the venue capable of hosting conventions, exhibitions and entertainment.

“This will be an iconic destination that delivers major events for sports, entertainment, the arts, conventions, exhibitions and other community uses, enabling Queensland to reap the benefits for decades to come after putting on the best Olympic Games ever,” says David Gallant, Walker Corporation’s CEO and managing director.

“The Horizon Centre has always been central to Maroochydore city centre’s vision to create a landmark economic and social hub which drives growth and unlocks opportunity for the Sunshine Coast, so we are excited to accelerate delivery of this asset to create a powerful Brisbane 2032 legacy.”

The Horizon Centre would be built as a 6-star Green Star development with a 10-minute connection to Sunshine Coast Airport.

Walker Corporation would be partnering on the project with construction company Built and architectural firm Woods Bagot – the latter two companies which are currently working together on the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, which opens in 2026.

“The Horizon Centre will be a premium architectural icon for the Sunshine Coast, seamlessly integrating the arena with a multi-modal transport network, providing a secure athletes’ village and carefully blending open space, landscaping and community into a cohesive outdoor environment,” says Sarah Key, CEO, Woods Bagot.

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