Drilling has begun at the Gabba Entertainment and Housing Precinct in Woolloongabba, marking a transition from the Cross River Rail site to a new mixed-use development that includes a 17,000-seat arena and thousands of new homes.

The Cross River Rail site is being repurposed into the Gabba arena project, signaling a major transport link shift and a catalyst for Woolloongabba’s urban renewal.

The Queensland government is overseeing the transition, with the arena project framed as a long-term generational legacy for Queensland and a move toward private-sector delivery.

A winning consortium will be announced later this year, with construction planned to start in the first half of 2027 after design proposals are submitted by shortlisted groups.

Both shortlisted consortia must submit detailed designs; the winner will be announced later in the year, paving the way for construction in early 2027.

The eventual delivery is anticipated to mirror private-sector models seen in similar arena projects, potentially including a hand-back arrangement after a concession period.

Deputy Premier highlighted the arena’s expected heavy use and potential events, noting it could host concerts such as Dolly Parton in addition to sports.

State officials indicate the arena will be funded and built by the private sector, with ongoing commercial negotiations on delivery methods and hand-back terms.

Industry and community voices welcomed the milestone, emphasizing housing supply, urban renewal, and the importance of speed and investment certainty.

A precedent from a Gold Coast Arena project and potential private-sector hand-back is being considered, signaling possible delivery models for the Gabba Arena.

The project aims to create a world-class entertainment hub linked to public transport, delivering cultural, economic and social benefits beyond the 2032 Games.

Officials frame the project as a generational economic, cultural, and social legacy for Queensland, accelerating after previous delays and shifting to private-sector execution.