The Gabba and Suncorp stadiums would also be refurbished,with the latter to host the opening and closing ceremonies,in a sharp departure from the state’s now-dumped $2.7 billion plan to rebuild the Gabba for that purpose.

Why it matters

Schrinner’s position places him partially at odds with the leader of the LNP in state parliament and alternate premier contesting October’s vote,David Crisafulli,on his plans fora fresh 100-day review of Games planning if elected.

It is also a U-turn from his oppositionbefore the March 16 council elections when the idea of a new stadium at Victoria Park was floated. Both Crisafulli and Premier Steven Miles have ruled out a new stadium.

What they said

“I understand both the stance taken by the Premier and the Opposition Leader,” Schrinner told journalists meeting arrivingorganising committee members in Brisbane on Friday morning.

“They represent the whole state,I represent Brisbane. I’d love to see a great legacy outcome for Brisbane – and you would expect me to say that as well.”

Pressed on Crisafulli’s suggestions a new stadium wasn’t part of the Games pitch,Schrinner said it had always been:first at Albion and then at the Gabba.

But he sought to downplay disagreement and differences in opinion as a sign of a healthy democracy and something which happened in every host city,and that he would keep pushing his position.

Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee Board president Andrew Liveris described the week’s events,including denied reports the government sought advice on cancelling the games,as “not a good look for any of us”as he arrived.

“The Gabba will sort of limp through until the Olympics,but what happens after that? We need a good quality oval stadium for AFL,cricket,for large concerts … this is an ongoing need of the community and it’s got nothing to do with the Olympics.”

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

Speaking afterwards,he stressed those in the room – including Miles – agreed on “recapturing the narrative” of why the Games were good for the city,state and country,adding he was pleased people were thinking about the legacy for AFL and cricket but that those codes “need to speak up”.

“That’s not the Olympics’ job. We will receive what the state says is an important legacy,and then we’ll work with that,” he said.

Perspectives

The Brisbane Lions haveexpressed disappointment the Victoria Park options was shot down so quickly,but Queensland Cricket’s response has been more muted.

Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace,speaking to ABC Radio Brisbane this week,conceded that “eventually someone in the future … post 2032” would need to look further at the future of the Gabba,“that is not required right now”.