Stadiums Queensland - Queensland Parliament - Queensland ...

Chief Executive’s Report
The 2008/09 financial year proved
challenging yet ultimately successful for
Stadiums Queensland.
Our challenges arose from two unexpected and
unprecedented events.
The first challenge was a climatic episode in November when
an intense storm damaged a portion of the Gabba roof just
hours before the first ball was to be bowled in the Australia
v New Zealand International Test match. Several sections
of fabric roofing were torn, and 12 of the supporting roof
trusses damaged.
It is in circumstances such as these that an organisation’s
systems are put to the test. It is pleasing to report that the
operating procedures and risk management systems we, as
an organisation, have progressively developed over the past
eight years proved up to the task. All systems require people
to make them work, and as a result of the co-operation of all
parties to mobilise the necessary resources and expertise,
the first ball of the Test was bowled as soon as the wicket had
dried out enough for the umpires to commence play. Stadiums
Queensland acknowledges and appreciates the contribution
of all those who played a part in the prompt and effective
response to this incident including Gabba staff, Watpac
(the stadium building contractor), engineering consultants,
Queensland and Australian cricket officials, venue caterer
Michael O’Brien, the Queensland Police Service, Emergency
Services and the insurers. As a consequence of their efforts,
the game on the field was able to proceed unaffected by the
carnage left by that extreme storm event.
It is important to acknowledge the co-operation received
from spectators attending the Test match. The goodwill
extended by cricket patrons, when it was necessary to
relocate them to enable the clean up to proceed, was greatly
appreciated. Similarly, thanks is due to our neighbours, the
East Brisbane State School and adjacent businesses for their
co-operation as we set about the clean up and the task of
repair. The support received by the Brisbane Lions Board,
management and fans for their patience and understanding
as repairs to the roof continued into the first half of the AFL
season is also appreciated.
The testing undertaken following this extreme weather event
confirmed the Gabba roof remains structurally sound and
work is now well progressed in replacing damaged trusses and
reinstating fabric roofing.
The second major challenge within the last 12 months was
the impact on consumer confidence arising from the global
financial crisis. Working with our hirers and stadium service
providers, Stadiums Queensland sought to mitigate the
effects of the economic downturn through efficient operational
practices, optimising the use of its assets, and pursuing new
business opportunities.
12 Stadiums Queensland