April 17, 2025
Phillip Thompson Commits $6 Million Lighting Upgrade for Riverway Stadium
Phillip Thompson, Federal Member for Herbert, has pledged $6 million to transform Riverway Stadium into a premier venue capable of hosting nationally televised competitions.
The funding, promised under an elected LNP government, will upgrade the stadium’s lighting to broadcast-standard LED, enabling Townsville to host major night-time sporting events like Big Bash League cricket matches and AFL professional games.
Mr. Thompson said outdated lighting has long prevented Townsville from securing high-profile games.
“Riverway Stadium has a top-tier playing field, no question, but its lighting is a letdown. This upgrade will light up the field and attract major competitions to Townsville,” he said.
Queensland Cricket has strongly endorsed Phillip Thompon’s commitment, with CEO Terry Svenson noting that Riverway Stadium has long been a vital venue for regional cricket.
“Queensland Cricket welcomes the financial commitment from Phillip Thompson and the federal Coalition. Having lights installed at Riverway Stadium significantly increases opportunities to bring more content to Townsville so fans can get the chance to see their heroes play. It also provides wonderful opportunities for community sport within Townsville and the region,” Mr Svenson said.
Both AFL and Queensland Cricket have shown keen interest in hosting televised matches in Townsville, contingent on the Riverway stadium meeting broadcast standards.
Mr Thompson pushed hard for these upgrades in his previous election campaign, though the LNP did not form government. Now, heading into the upcoming election, he has made the $6 million commitment a key priority if the LNP wins nationally.
“I’ve run a petition among local sporting clubs and the wider community, and the support for this project has been overwhelming,” he said.
Beyond attractimg professional sports, the upgrade aims to inspire local youth.
“This isn’t just for elite athletes—it’s about our children and young people seeing their heroes on the field and thinking, ‘I can do that too,’” Mr. Thompson added.
He pointed to other cities in North Queensland hosting Big Bash League games while Townsville, despite its premiere field, has been overlooked due to inadequate lighting.
“We’ve seen Cairns and Mackay host major competitions while Townsville gets left behind. It’s time to change that,” Mr Thompson said.
The $6 million investment will not only enable televised night matches but also boost the local economy and support growth in community sports.
“This is a win for local clubs and a chance to put Townsville on the national stage,” Mr. Thompson said.
“Our local clubs want this, Queensland Cricket and AFL want this, the community wants this, let’s get it done”, he said.
