Tensions between the RSL and the Tasmanian Government have flared up again over the proposed Macquarie Point stadium, with the latest images of the design prompting renewed criticism from the veterans’ organisation.
The RSL remains firmly opposed to the project due to its impact on the Hobart Cenotaph, particularly the obstruction of key views from the Derwent Estuary, Battery Point and St George’s Church.
RSL chief executive John Hardy said the new images only confirmed their worst fears.
He said they would not be backing down from their anti-stadium 1.0 stance and will continue to push for the alternative Stadium 2.0 vision.
Greens MP Vica Bayley echoed the RSL’s concerns, describing the visual impact on the Cenotaph as unacceptable.
“Ever since the stadium was announced we’ve heard Liberal politicians dismissing the concerns raised by RSL Tasmania about the stadium. But these images clearly show there’s a major problem,” he said.
“The Liberals have been waging a PR campaign to try and sway public opinion on the stadium, including by releasing select images that attempt to make it look less imposing.”
“Tasmanians haven’t bought the spin though and these new images show a much more truthful picture. No wonder the government hasn’t published them.”
Speaking in parliament, Veterans’ Affairs Minister Guy Barnett said he was continuing to engage with the RSL.
He said the latest render was provided to the organisation in good faith and accused the Greens of deliberately trying to stop the stadium project.
“Your recent legislation, which is being put forward and tabled in this place for public consultation, is designed to kill the stadium,” Barnett said.
