Burke is advocating for the use of the Metro to assist the 13,000 students at the campus, support the Games, and boost public transport options for the QEII Jubilee Hospital. By providing services every 15 minutes and capable of carrying 170 people at a time, the Metro could potentially reduce the number of cars in the area. He believes that the existing carparks could be converted to Metro stations, with minimal impact on surrounding koala habitat. The State Development Minister Grace Grace has expressed that all options will be considered to make the Games a success and provide a legacy for the community, including the possibility of legacy transport opportunities between QSAC, the QEII Hospital, and Griffith University.
Griffith University’s Vice Chancellor Carolyn Evans has highlighted the lack of public transport options for the campus, QSAC, and the hospital, emphasizing the importance of a well-connected precinct. Evans believes that improved public transport options would provide the community with the opportunity to engage with a leading tertiary institution, an expanding hospital service, and a prideful sporting facility. While the Metro proposal has received positive feedback, Cindy Hook, the chief executive of the Brisbane Organising Committee, has stated that all good ideas are welcomed. The Metro, a $1.8 billion initiative from Schrinner’s LNP council, is set to commence services later this year, with plans to extend the network.
Burke has further suggested that only a small number of trees would need to be removed to widen walkways to the stadium at QSAC, dispelling concerns about impacting the surrounding koala habitat. The second track at QSAC would provide a more convenient warm-up track for Games competitors than the Gabba rebuild option. The closest bus transit hub is currently 3 km away, while the closest rail station is 2 km away. The proposed Metro stations could potentially alleviate the need for extensive travel to access public transport options in the area. Grace has announced that work has started on a business case for the QSAC upgrade and broader works, with consultation with stakeholders being a crucial part of the process.
Victoria Park and the Gabba are also set to benefit from the Metro initiative, with plans for nearby stations and improved accessibility. The Metro, along with new Cross River Rail and Metro stations, could transform public transport options in these areas. Burke believes that the Metro would leave a transport legacy from the Games, which has not been promised thus far. By enhancing public transport options and creating a well-connected precinct, the Metro could have a lasting impact on the community and support the success of the Games. As discussions and plans progress, the potential benefits of the Metro proposal for QSAC, Griffith University, and the QEII Hospital continue to be explored.
