The future of gymnastics at Chandler remains uncertain. Queensland Gymnastics raises concerns over the sport’s exclusion from Brisbane 2032 venue announcements despite planned upgrades to the Chandler Sports Precinct.
Gymnastics Queensland has expressed concerns about the future of gymnastics at Chandler. This is following the Brisbane 2032 venue announcement. The recent unveiling of Olympic venues did not include the Sleeman Sports Complex at Chandler. This left Queensland Gymnastics feeling overlooked. The complex recently faced issues with leaking roofs during heavy rainfall. These issues highlight the need for urgent upgrades.
Chris Rushton, head of Queensland Gymnastics, plans to meet with Queensland’s Minister for the Olympics and Paralympics, Tim Mander. Mr Rushton intends to seek clarity on whether the Chandler facility will receive the necessary upgrades or be replaced. He has voiced disappointment at the sport’s omission from the venue list, considering gymnastics has a significant following in the state.
Photo Credit: Gymnastics Queensland/Facebook
Upgrades Planned for Chandler Sports Precinct
Despite the uncertainty, the State previously announced a $257 million upgrade for the Chandler Sports Precinct. The upgrade aims to transform it into a modern multi-sports hub ahead of Brisbane 2032. Plans include a new indoor sports centre, upgrades to the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, and improvements to site accessibility and connectivity.
The new indoor facility is set to include 10,000 spectator seats and two halls—one with 10 multi-sport courts and the other dedicated to gymnastics, measuring 2,400 square metres. The project, funded through the Minor Venues Program, is expected to create 210 construction jobs and provide community access well before the Games.
State Response and Community Sentiment
Mr Mander acknowledged that the Chandler gymnastics centre requires improvements, stating that not all Olympic sports were mentioned during the initial venue announcement. He reassured the community that discussions on the future of the gymnastics facility are ongoing.
Local athletes and coaches hope the planned upgrades will secure gymnastics’ place in the 2032 Olympics. Many believe the proposed improvements will benefit the sport but remain concerned about the lack of official confirmation.
Photo Credit: Gymnastics Queensland/Facebook
Next Steps and Ongoing Concerns
Construction at the Chandler Sports Precinct is slated to begin in 2025 and finish by 2027, ensuring the upgraded facilities will be used well before the Games. However, Queensland Gymnastics remains uncertain whether the planned facilities will meet the sport’s requirements for Olympic competition.
Gymnastics stakeholders are keen to see official confirmation of the sport’s future at Chandler. Discussions between the State and gymnastics representatives will continue in the coming weeks.
Published 8-Apr-2025