General News
29 September, 2026
Park shuts down as 2032 games works begin
RUGBY league games and athletics are off the schedule at Barlow Park as early Olympic Games works start.
It closed temporarily this week to allow early works to begin on the major upgrade, creating a better experience for athletes and fans.
The project will support local sport, attract major events and create a lasting legacy for Cairns and Far North Queensland beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The upgrade will include:
A new grandstand, increasing seating from around 1700 to about 5000
Improved amenities, including food and beverage and accessible facilities
Better access, entry, wayfinding and movement around the venue
New landscaped spaces and gathering areas
A design that responds to Cairns’ tropical climate, improving comfort, shade and airflow.
The existing field and tartan athletics track will be retained.
“Early works will include essential power and water service relocations to prepare the site for construction. Limited athletics and community use is expected to resume in early 2027,” a council spokeswoman said.
“Council will continue to operate Barlow Park in a restricted manner throughout the construction phases, subject to works progressing as planned.
“It is expected that the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) will take possession of the site in early November 2026.
“Limited athletics and community use is expected to resume in early 2027, supported by temporary facilities and managed access arrangements while works continue.
A GIICA spokesman said main construction works were expected to begin from mid-2027, with construction staging to be refined as delivery planning progresses.
“Design work is progressing well, with multi award-winning Architectus, in partnership with international sports architecture specialist HKS, appointed earlier this year to shape the stadium’s design,” he said.
“The invitation for prequalification (IFP) for the Barlow Park delivery contractor, which went to market in July, has now closed and is progressing through the selection process.”
Following the IFP, shortlisted tenderers will take part in the invitation to offer, after which GIICA will evaluate and decide on a successful contractor.
