MECC and Events team has grand plans for stadium

The stadium will remain the home of Mackay Cutters, but MECC and Events staff will collaborate with them to help attract more events to the council-owned facility.

As part of the plan, a memorandum of understanding is being developed, subject to council approval, which will bring the stadium management role inhouse to Mackay Regional Council.

The mutually beneficial plan will allow both parties to concentrate on their core business.

The Cutters will be better placed to manage their six rugby league teams and build their membership and sponsorship bases.

The MECC and Events team will attract and deliver high-calibre events to activate the stadium, draw people to our region and generate economic benefits.

Council CEO Scott Owen said a key catalyst for the transition was the Mackay Stadium Masterplan. 

“Council has allocated $3.1 million as part of its current budget for Mackay Stadium refurbishment and master planning for future development,’’ he said.

“The Cutters management contract was also expiring, so the opportunity was taken to look at options for management and operation of the stadium.”

Mackay Cutters CEO Mitch Cook thanked council for its proactive approach in dealing with future management of the stadium.

“This will be a great outcome for the stadium, the region’s economy and Mackay’s sports and events lovers,” he said.

“We’ll be able to concentrate on footy, knowing our interests in the stadium are being looked after as part of a greater plan to activate and improve the facility going forward.”