New Tasmania stadium guarantees cricket in any weather

Cricket fans worldwide are excited for the world's first all-weather cricket stadium to take shape in Tasmania, Australia. The innovative Macquarie Point stadium, set to be built on Hobart's waterfront, will revolutionize the sport by guaranteeing play in any weather condition.

The 23,000-seat roofed stadium is part of a larger deal to bring an AFL team to Tasmania by 2028. Sport and Events Minister Nic Street emphasized the multipurpose nature of the facility. Inspired by local heritage and culture, the stadium features a woven-style facade reminiscent of the historic Hobart Rail Yard roundhouse. Aboriginal community members have also provided cultural guidance for the project. Perhaps most striking is the transparent roof, supported by an internal steel and timber frame, which shows Tasmanian timber and allows natural light to reach the playing surface.

"While developing this stadium is an important step in realizing our dream of seeing our own AFL and AFLW teams running out on our field, this facility will offer so much more," he told reporters on Sunday.

"The maritime heritage of the broader area has also been taken into account, and culturally informed under the guidance of Aboriginal community members. The transparent roof, which is supported by an internal steel and timber frame, provides an opportunity to showcase Tasmanian timber," he further added.

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Cricket's biggest concern was the height of the roof: Alistair Richardson

Cox Architecture CEO Alistair Richardson highlighted the unique benefits of the stadium's design for cricket. The naturally ventilated roof will extend the grass growing season, potentially allowing for a longer cricket calendar. Richardson addressed concerns about the roof height, assuring that it's unlikely to interfere with play.

"Cricket's biggest concern was the height of the roof. they cited concerns with Marvel Stadium (in Melbourne) where the ball could potentially hit the roof," Mr Richardson said.

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The stadium consists of several impressive features, including a 1500-person function room with views of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington and a stage pocket in the northern stand for concerts and events. The design has been informed by cricket ball trajectory data to ensure optimal playing conditions. Accessibility has been prioritized with a single continuous concourse servicing the entire stadium, and a seating bowl design brings spectators closer to the action.

While the project has its supporters, it's not without controversy. Greens MP Cassy O'Connor expressed concerns about the stadium's location and impact on the surrounding area. However, AFL CEO Andrew Dillon sees the designs as a positive step towards establishing the Tassie Devils Football Club.