MyState Bank Arena “Needs” Expansion: Kestelman

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Tasmania JackJumpers Owner Larry Kestelman has declared MyState Bank Arena “needs” an increased capacity to match the growing demand for JackJumpers tickets.

The Mercury has revealed the NBL has begun discussions with the Tasmanian and Federal Governments on a $40 million extension of MyState Bank Arena to bump the capacity by up to 40 percent.

Kestelman referenced the demand for Tasmania tickets as one of the main reasons behind the push to increase the arena.

“The Tasmania JackJumpers have one of the most passionate fanbases in all of Australian sport,” Kestelman said.

“The demand for JackJumpers tickets is significantly above the stadium’s capacity, with every game this and last season sold out. New memberships sold out in 26 minutes this season, and the club is now investigating a waiting list to become a season ticket holder.

“This highlights how much Tasmania has gotten behind the JackJumpers, but also emphasises the need for increased capacity at the venue to accommodate more fans and give more Tasmanians the opportunity to see their beloved team play live.”

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Since its refurbishment in 2021, MyState Bank Arena has been 91 per cent sold for all events, including a 100 per cent sell rate for sporting events.

Kestelman says a larger capacity will inject economic benefits and create more jobs for Tasmania, while also costing a miniature sum compared to the reported $375 million needed to build an AFL stadium at Macquarie Point in Hobart.

“MyState Bank Arena is the highest sold arena in Australia in terms of capacity, so there is no doubt the demand is there for the venue to host bigger crowds and events,” Kestelman said.

“This will create new jobs in Tasmania and attract even more world class events to the state. We understand the Tasmanian government wants a new AFL team and considering the extension would cost 5% of the AFL stadium it seems a reasonable suggestion.”

The proposed project would see a potential capacity of over 6,000 for JackJumpers games and over 10,000 for a standing concert.