More than 60 Tasmanian business heavyweights have joined forces to back the proposed Macquarie Point stadium.
The coalition of influential figures from across the legal, finance, real estate, property development, tourism and hospitality sectors have signed an open letter ahead of crucial enabling legislation due in Parliament after the election.
The leaders have urging politicians to support the project they describe as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity” for the state.
The signatories include well-known hospitality figures Lucy Baker from St Albi Bar and Eatery, Rob Jubb and James Faulkner from Shipwrights Arms Hotels and several other prominent restaurateurs.
Long-time restaurateur Angelo Fraraccio, who has operated Da Angelo Ristorante – one of Tasmania’s most beloved restaurants – for more than three decades, is spearheading the push.
“We have come together to back the stadium as a catalyst for much needed economic stimulus and growth to support the business community in Tasmania,” Fraraccio said.
The group warns that failure to pass the legislation would result in Tasmania missing out on securing AFL and AFLW teams.
“This is a defining moment for Tasmania to build a world-class stadium, we have the chance to transform our state’s future, boost our economy and inspire the next generation,” Fraraccio said.
“But we must act now. If we don’t, we lose the team and we lose a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
The group says the multi-purpose stadium would inject hundreds of millions of dollars into the Tasmanian economy and create thousands of jobs during and after construction.
The project would also unlock $350 million in grassroots football funding across regional Tasmania over the next decade.
“This is about our children and grandchildren’s future, demonstrating belief in Tasmania and giving our young people something to be proud of,” Fraraccio said.
“It’s about creating a space that belongs to all Tasmanians – a venue for football, yes, but also for concerts, festivals, exhibitions and community celebrations.”
Meanwhile, hotel and casino operator Federal Group are continuing to voice their opposition to the project, warning it would permanently damage the “iconic vista” of Hobart’s waterfront.
“We’ll have a massive structure looming right over the top of Henry Jones, right to the edge of Evans Street,” Federal Group Executive GM Daniel Hanna told Local Radio on Wednesday.
“It will forever change what is a beautiful maritime heritage zone that’s valued by Tasmanians and visitors.”
He said their main concerns stem from the impact the stadium would have on the company’s nearby Henry Jones and MACq 01 hotels.
“We’re also concerned about other things, noise, lights and shadowing and parking as well, to be frank.”
