The Central Coast Mariners FC engaged Hawkridge Entertainment Services to assist in the preparation of their response to the tender for stadium management rights of Central Coast Stadium. Central Coast Council recently conducted a tender for the management rights of the Stadium.
Central Coast Stadium (known originally as Grahame Park) is located in Gosford in the Central Coast region of NSW. The stadium is home to the Central Coast Mariners Football Club which competes in the Australian Football league – the A-League. It also hosts rugby league fixtures on an ad hoc basis as well as other major social events.
The stadium is rectangular with a capacity of 20,059 which includes a range of corporate areas. It is within walking distance of the Gosford CBD. The Central Coast Leagues Club and League Club Field are adjacent to the stadium, across Dane Drive.
Central Coast Council has operated the stadium for the past seven years, with annual operating losses between $841,000 and $1.4 million. This was reported in Stadium Implementation Plan, adopted by council in March 2021. The plan outlines a number of strategies to improve the stadium precinct. In addition, it outlines the requirements for further ongoing capital expenditure estimated at more than $1 million a year.
The Stadium hosted 27 events in 2017/18 and 21 events in 2018/19, including 13 home A-League Mariners games. The number of events doubled in 2020 owing to Covid, with additional NRL games played in Gosford, including NZ Warriors home games.
Our work
Hawkridge Entertainment Services delivers successful outcomes by finding solutions to complex issues. We listen to stakeholders and complete tasks in the timeframes required.
Hawkridge Entertainment Services provides a range of services for organisations including strategic analysis, feasibility development and business case writing. Some of our recent projects are:
- Report on the economic contribution of Music Venues in NSW
- Coffs Harbour Community and Cultural Facilities Plan 2021-2031
- Economic impact of the Alex Theatre, St Kilda
- Analysis of Venue Booking Software for Ryde City Council
Other similar projects completed by Hawkridge Entertainment Services are available here.