Queensland Art Gallery Presscuttings Book 10 : Record of press coverage, March 1982 - May 1984

Above, from lelt: Brisbane . it's all fun and smiles. extra seating, will be cleverly re-used later to upgrade smaller sports clubs around the city. The new Sleeman sports complex at Chandler (named afterforrncr Lord Mayor Aid . Frank Sleeman). 12km south– east of the central business area, which is the venue for swimming, diving, weight– Ii fti ng, badminton and cycling, is set in I30ha of unspoilt bushland . Picnic areas, ornamental lakes and walks have been added . There's also a community theatre which. like the other facilities, is already in use. Unlike Edmonton, home of the last Commonwealth Garnes in 1978, there was no nail-biting, last minute panic to complete the sports facili- .-~ ties. In fact, construction was largely completed a year ahead in time for major sports meetings to double as pre-Commonwealth Games rehearsals. This was the first time that competitors and officials had been able to familiarise them– selves with Garnes venues prior to the competition. And just as important. facili– ties at QE 11, Chandler and other venues have been open for the public to enjoy a full 12 months before the Games. In the central city, the coun– ci 1 's beautification pro– gramme has includt· d face-lifts and construction in almost every direction you care to turn. Star billing goes to the new Queen Street Mall which is helping to change the entire character of the central city area . Much more than just a place to shop. it's been transformed into a hive of activity and entertainment. Development is booming and spilling out to the suburbs where rejuvenation of older areas such as Spring Hill is adding to Brisbane's ne"' look . New roads. footpaths . park facilities, a 1,200-scat amphitheatre in Albert Park .. . the list goes on and on. "Shine on Brisbane" frver shows no sign of diminishing. The Games set the band– w:igon rolling but now it has gained a momentum of its own. Brisbane has woken up. Grown up, say some. It cer– tainly has arrived in '82. Another big celebration is ~-