The Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville is one of the newest and most impressive sports stadiums in Australia, having only opened its doors in February 2020. Located in the heart of Townsville, the stadium predominantly hosts rugby league and union games.
With a capacity of 25,000 seats and state-of-the-art facilities, it has quickly become a must-visit destination for sports fans and music lovers alike. From its stunning design and architecture to its world-class technology and amenities, the stadium has received high praise from visitors and construction professionals alike.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium, exploring its features, amenities, and overall experience. Whether you’re a die-hard rugby fan or simply curious about this impressive new venue, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting the stadium and what to expect from your game-day experience.
About the Stadium
The Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville is a world-class sports and entertainment venue. The stadium was officially opened in February 2020, and it has since become the home ground for the North Queensland Cowboys rugby league team and the Queensland Reds in Super Rugby.
The stadium is designed to offer an exceptional experience to fans, with a seating capacity of 25,000 and state-of-the-art facilities. It boasts a unique design that reflects the rugged landscape of North Queensland, with a distinctive roof that resembles a series of fans or petals.
Inside the ground, fans can enjoy an array of modern amenities and facilities which make their game day experience a very positive one.
Built at a cost of $293 million, the stadium is an impressive addition to Australia’s sporting landscape overall.
What Sports Are Played at Queensland Country Bank Stadium?
The main sports played at the stadium are rugby league and rugby union.
In NRL, it has been the home ground of the North Queensland Cowboys since it opened in 2020. While the Queensland Reds recently started playing some of its home games there in 2023 as part of the celebrations of their 140th season.
In 2021 there was an international double header in the Rugby Union championships held at the stadium, which saw Australia take on Argentina and New Zealand face South Africa.
The women’s State of Origin is also due to take place at the stadium in June 2023.
What Other Sports Have Been Played There?
As well as both codes of rugby, the stadium has hosted a football match, when the Brisbane Roar took on Aston Villa in a friendly in July 2022, which the English Premier League club won 1-0.
The Matildas have also hosted a football match against New Zealand here too.
Additionally, the ground has also held a world championship boxing match when Tim Tszyu took on Jeff Horn in a Super Welterweight bout in August 2020 for the WBO Global Super Welter and IBF Australasian Super Welter titles.
Tszyu emerged victorious by TKO after eight rounds.
Other Events
Queensland Country Bank Stadium is predominantly a sports venue. However, to celebrate its opening, Elton John played a gig here as part of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road.
This concert was the stadium’s first official event.
Statue
One of the most notable features of the stadium is the statue of Johnathan Thurston which resides outside it.
Erected in April 2019, this bronze sculpture stands 2.6 metres tall and weighs approximately 400 kilograms. It was created by sculptor Liam Hardy and took over six months to complete. The statue depicts him kicking a goal, with his signature headgear and kicking tee at his feet.
As you would expect, the statue is a popular attraction for fans of rugby league and tourists visiting Townsville. It serves as a tribute to Thurston’s achievements and his impact on the sport and the community in North Queensland.
Facilities
The Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that offers a range of amenities and facilities to make your game day experience comfortable and enjoyable.
It has a capacity of 25,000 seats, all of which offer unobstructed views of the playing field. The stadium has also been designed with accessibility in mind and features a range of facilities, including wheelchair ramps, accessible seating, and accessible restrooms.
Additionally, the stadium is also equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a giant LED video screen and an advanced sound system, which helps to create an electric atmosphere during the match.
There are several food outlets located throughout the stadium, offering a range of food and drink options to satisfy your hunger and thirst. While a number of merchandise outlets sell team apparel and other memorabilia.
The stadium features several corporate and function spaces, including suites and function rooms, which can be hired for events and corporate functions.
A number of parking areas are also located within walking distance of the entrance, with ample spaces available for both cars and buses.
How to get to the stadium
The Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville is a relatively easy stadium to get to by car, public transport or on foot.
For those driving to the stadium, you can access it via several main roads, including Ross River Road and Woolcock Street. There is also ample parking available on-site, with several parking areas located within walking distance of the stadium.
If you prefer to take public transport, there are a number of bus routes that service the stadium, including the Sunbus 200 and 201 routes. Additionally, many hotels in the area offer shuttle services to and from the stadium on game days too.
Should you be staying or coming from the city centre, the stadium is within walking distance, and there are several pedestrian paths and bridges that allow for easy access. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber are also available in the area and can drop you off right outside the stadium entrance.
No matter which transportation option you choose, it’s important to plan your journey in advance, especially on game days when traffic and crowds may be heavier than usual. It is also worth checking the latest traffic and transport updates before you set off to ensure a smooth journey to the ground.
Food Options
You won’t go hungry when attending a game at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium, as there are plenty of food options available to satisfy your hunger.
Throughout the stadium there are several food outlets, offering a traditional range of classic game-day foods such as hot dogs, burgers, pies, and chips. You can also find vegetarian options and healthier choices like salads and wraps.
On some occasions, the stadium may host food trucks, which might bring a range of international food options to the ground, including Mexican, Thai or Indian cuisines.
Additionally, if you are attending a corporate or VIP event at the stadium, you may have access to one of the function rooms or suites. These areas offer a terrific selection of catering options, from canapes and finger foods to full sit-down meals.
Outside of the stadium, there are several restaurants and cafes available to dine within walking distance. These include everything from casual cafes and bistros to more upscale restaurants and bars.
So, rest assured, overall, there are plenty of food options in or around the Queensland Country Bank Stadium to suit all tastes and preferences.
Accommodation near the ground
If you’re planning to attend a match at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville, you’ll want to find a comfortable and convenient place to stay before or after it. Fortunately, there are several fabulous options in the area you can choose from.
Located just a short walk from the stadium, Madison Plaza Townsville is a very good option for those who want to be close to the action. With comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, it’s a popular choice among visiting sports fans.
Another popular option just a few minutes from the stadium is the Rydges Southbank Townsville. A modern hotel, it offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant and a bar to celebrate or drown your sorrows in after the game.
If you fancy staying somewhere a bit more upmarket, consider The Ville Resort – Casino. Residing just a short drive from the stadium, the luxurious resort offers a range of room types, as well as a casino, multiple restaurants and bars and a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.
Those wanting to self-cater should book into the Quest Townsville on Eyre. This apartment-style hotel is right in the heart of the city and offers fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and all the other comforts of home.
Alternatively, the Oaks Townsville Gateway Suites are also worth bearing in mind as it offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, not far from the stadium.
Good pubs to visit
For those wanting a drink just before or after a match, there are several good pubs to visit near the Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville.
One of the most popular of them is The Commonwealth Hotel. This historic hotel is just a short walk from the stadium and features a great selection of beers on tap, as well as a menu of pub classics and modern Australian cuisine. There are also plenty of big screen TVs that show live sport when it’s on.
The Townsville Brewing Company is another good option. A craft brewery situated in the heart of the city, it offers a terrific selection of burgers, pizzas and other pub fare, as well as an excellent selection of locally made beers on tap.
Another good craft brewery to visit is The Brewery, which is just a few blocks from the stadium. It presents a terrific selection of beers in a lively and friendly atmosphere which will really get you pumped for the game.
For those wanting a more upscale pub experience, The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. is a great option. You’ll find this stylish bar in the city’s historic Metropole Hotel, offering a range of cocktails, wines, and beers, as well as a menu of fresh seafood and other dishes in a venue with swanky decor.
If it’s the classic Aussie pub experience you are after, then look no further than The Australian Hotel. It is just a short walk from the stadium and offers a relaxed atmosphere, cold beers, and hearty pub meals, making it a great spot to grab a drink and watch the game with friends.
Quick Stats
Address: 2 Pride Close, Railway Estate QLD 4810
Capacity: 25,000
Opened: 2020
Construction Cost: $293.5 Million
Field size: Not Recorded
Record attendance: 27,533 – State of Origin – QLD v NSW (09 – 06 -21)