Qudos Bank Arena is proudly teaming up with ASM Global for our 2nd Global Month of Giving! This all-encompassing initiative offers team members worldwide the chance to devote their time and skills to volunteering, giving back, and engaging in local community projects, symbolising our unwavering commitment to the people and places we serve. As a part of ASM Global Acts, our Global Month of Giving embodies our collective mission to create a positive impact on individuals’ lives, both globally and locally.
We are shining a spotlight on our remarkable Corporate Social Responsibility partners, encouraging everyone to contribute to each partner’s dedicated page and learn more about their organisation and the incredible work they undertake. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that our Month of Giving coincides with Ausmusic T-Shirt Day, so we invite everyone to proudly wear their favourite Aussie artist band shirts and donate!
Starlight Children’s Foundation
When Ariana was diagnosed with bone marrow failure just before her 6th birthday, she spent almost an entire year isolated in hospital and away from her friends and family.
Her Starlight Wish to reconnect with her family on a magical Gold Coast adventure came as the ultimate reward for her incredible bravery.
There are currently 152 seriously ill children like Ariana waiting to experience the wonder of their Starlight Wish. We are asking supporters to help grant a Starlight Wish to a seriously ill child like Ariana this Christmas. Supporters will be giving lasting happiness to a child facing the pain and fear of a serious illness.
Foodbank is Australia’s largest food relief organisation. We believe everyone should have access to the food they need. We’re here for everyday Australians who are going without. Over 780,000 households in NSW & ACT went hungry in the last 12 months due to lack of funds, sometimes skipping meals or going whole days without eating.
As an organisation, we exist to source food and make it accessible to those who need it. We do this through three crucial steps – sourcing, supplying, and transporting food to make it accessible to people in every corner of our state and territory.
Christmas can be a particularly tough time for many Australians, particularly those in our communities struggling to put a meal on the table or trying to fill hungry bellies during school holidays.
Looking for a thoughtful gift to show a teammate, friend or family member that you care? Gotcha4Life Keep Cards are just what you need! With these cards, you can send a personalised message to your village while also making a difference helping Gotcha4Life fund more programs to build mental fitness in schools.
Qudos Bank Arena is thrilled to join with ASM Global to shine a spotlight on Support Act’s mission to bring positive change and relief to our dedicated music and live performing arts community. Ausmusic T-Shirt Day is an annual day of fun and awareness on Thursday 30 November to celebrate Aussie music and raise urgently-needed funds for music workers in crisis.
Funds raised from the campaign go towards helping Support Act continue its crucial work supporting musicians, managers, crew and music workers through crisis relief, mental health and wellbeing programs, the Support Act Wellbeing Helpline, Mentally Healthy Workplaces Program and dedicated First Nations support.
Music lovers and businesses across Australia can support the campaign in three simple ways – Buy a T-Shirt, Donate and Fundraise.
A look back at the ten most iconic shows at Qudos Bank Arena this year!
The thought of Qudos Bank Arena likely inspires precious memories for event-goers across the country.
For decades, the iconic venue has hosted some of the starriest events Australia has ever seen, offering attendees the chance to witness their passions, from music to sport and comedy, in a world-class arena among legions of fellow fans.
Many of them will recall approaching the venue with those insatiable pre-show jitters, and later leaving what was their bucket-list event with an unmatched sense of fulfilment.
With so many years in the game, it can be tricky to nail down Qudos Bank Arena’s most iconic moments, especially for a venue that has hosted everything from the 2000 Olympics to the record-breaking arena tours of Billie Eilish.
In 2023 alone, the venue has stacked its itinerary with the year’s buzziest events and performances, with a bucket load of mammoth shows still yet to come.
As we approach the end of the year, we’re looking back at some of the biggest names and most iconic moments to be hosted by Qudos Bank Arena in 2023. Take a trip down memory lane below, and head here to find out more information about one of the country’s most enduring event venues.
Dave Chappelle
Kicking off the year with some much-needed laughs, Dave Chappelle graced the stage at Qudos Bank Arena in February, bringing his razor-sharp wit and incisive comedy to some 34,000 attendees.
The Emmy-winning comic drummed up enough fanfare to break the record for the most tickets ever to be sold for a comedy show at Qudos Bank Arena, a feat achieved due to the venue’s size and Chappelle’s acclaimed stand-up set.
Luke Combs
The prayers of country music fans were finally answered in August, when Luke Combs stole the spotlight at Qudos Bank Arena while touring his recent albums Growin’ Up and Gettin’ Old.
Demand was so high for the Beautiful Crazy singer-songwriter that the venue doled out nearly 35, 000 tickets, selling out two Sydney shows as part of Combs’ broader Australian tour.
Combs was joined on stage by support acts Cody Johnson and Lane Pittman, and blessed crowds by performing the beloved ritual that is a shoey.
UFC 293
The excitement ahead of UFC 293 in September was palpable across the country, to the point where ticket allocations for the buzzy event sold out within an astonishing 13 minutes.
The feat broke a Qudos Bank Arena record for the highest box office takings, previously held by The Rolling Stones, with the venue later hosting what will be remembered as one of the greatest upsets in recent MMA history.
Legions of fans across the globe looked on as Sean Strickland defeated Israel Adesanya for the UFC middleweight championship belt, enshrining an iconic moment into sports history.
Sydney Kings Back-To Back Championships v NZ Breakers
Hosting the full breadth of sporting events, Qudos Bank Arena is perhaps best known as the home game location of the beloved Sydney Kings.
The busiest moments for the NBL team took place in March, when Sydney Kings took to the court against the New Zealand Breakers in the best of 5 Grand Final series. After a neck-a-neck race, Sydney Kings took home the win with a heart stopping Game 5 clincher at Qudos Bank Arena on March 15.
The series broke an NBL record for the most tickets sold for a basketball game, again showcasing the venue’s role in memorable sporting moments.
Few artists captured the world’s attention this year quite like Lizzo. Armed with her latest album Special, the renowned singer-songwriter’s 2023 tour was one of the country’s must-see events, and she more than delivered with two sold-out, back-to-back shows at Qudos Bank Arena in July.
Amassing nearly 30,000 ticket sales and sharing the spotlight with Tkay Maidza, Lizzo blessed fans with mammoth hits like About Damn Time and Truth Hurts, joining countless fellow musicians in the Qudos Bank Arena hall of fame.
Morgan Wallen
If they hadn’t already snapped tickets for Luke Combs, then country music fans could satisfy their cravings with the warm vocals of Morgan Wallen, who sold tens of thousands of tickets for his Qudos Bank Arena shows in March.
The fanfare was so feverish that Wallen added an extra Sydney show, which likewise promptly sold out as legions of attendees basked in staple country hits like Last Night and You Proof — with the assistance of support acts Bailey Zimmerman and ERNEST & HARDY.
Florence + The Machine
The dog days were well and truly over when Florence + The Machine headed Down Under in March, equipped with a career-spanning set and joined by tour opener King Princess.
Selling nearly 15,000 tickets, the Qudos Bank Arena show was in support of Florence Welch’s album Dance Fever, a title which likely described the energy of concert-goers who attended the singer’s first Sydney show since 2019.
The 1975
Unsurprisingly given frontman Matty Healy’s penchant for eye-popping live show antics, the fanfare surrounding The 1975’s Sydney show in April was palpable among indie rock music fans.
The renowned British band stole the spotlight at Qudos Bank Arena alongside Wallice, blessing audiences with tracks from their latest album Being Funny in a Foreign Language and selling over 20, 000 tickets in the process.
My Chemical Romance
The hallowed halls of Qudos Bank Arena were graced by yet another monumental name in music this March, when New Jersey rock band My Chemical Romance took the stage as part of their first Australian tour in over ten years.
More than 20,000 emo fans attended My Chemical Romance’s back-to-back performances at Qudos Bank Arena, delivering a killer, decades-in-the-making set with the support of Jimmy Eats World.
Evanescence
Armed with a career-spanning setlist and in celebration of 20 years since their debut album Fallen, Evanescence had much to prove when they hit Australian shores in August.
Naturally, the rock five-piece delivered in spades, performing mammoth hits like Bring Me to Life, Going Under and My Immortal to well over 13,000 fans at Qudos Bank Arena.
While that’s enough to fill-out the calendar of even the most die-hard fans, Qudos Bank Arena still has a smattering of forthcoming shows before the year’s end, with 50 Cent and The Wiggles set to grace the stage and enshrine their names within the country’s most iconic venue.
Head here for Qudos Bank Arena’s full event calendar.
Qudos Bank Arena teams up with sustainability partner Foodbank NSW & ACT
Qudos Bank Arena has announced its partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT, a leading food relief organisation dedicated to providing essential food supplies to those in need and reducing food waste. The partnership reinforces Qudos Bank Arena’s commitment to sustainability, community support, and environmental responsibility.
Qudos Bank Arena General Manager, Steve Hevern states that “sustainability is a key objective for the Arena and establishing a partnership with Foodbank that optimises the redistribution of any food waste was a great opportunity for our business. This means we will work with Foodbank to identify food that can repurposed at an event level resulting in a positive initiative for both the environment and the community”.
Foodbank NSW & ACT mission is to reduce food waste and provide essential food supplies to those in need, ensuring that no one goes hungry in the community. Recent data from the Foodbank Hunger Report 2023 highlights the alarming reality that more than 1.2 million people in NSW and ACT experienced hunger in the past year, marking a concerning 10% increase from 2022.
Foodbank NSW & ACT CEO, John Robertson says, “There’s enough food in Australia to feed everyone, but the sad reality is that too many people can’t access it and millions of people are going hungry. Thanks to the support of our partners like Qudos Bank Arena, we’re able to redirect quality surplus food and get it to families right across our state and territory that need it most – making food available to anyone who needs it, no matter who they are or where they live.”
The report also reveals that food insecurity is affecting households that have never experienced it before, with 77% of food-insecure households being first-time sufferers. This challenging scenario emphasises the crucial need for action and support.
Qudos Bank Arena is proud to be partnering with Foodbank NSW & ACT, a leading food relief organisation dedicated to providing essential food supplies to those in need and reducing food waste. The partnership reinforces Qudos Bank Arena’s commitment to sustainability, community support, and environmental responsibility. Foodbank NSW & ACT is a leading food relief organisation in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Their mission is to reduce food waste and provide essential food supplies to those in need, ensuring that no one goes hungry in the community.
Recent data from the Foodbank Hunger Report 2023 highlights the alarming reality that more than 1.2 million people in NSW and ACT experienced hunger in the past year, marking a concerning 10% increase from 2022. The report also reveals that food insecurity is affecting households that have never experienced it before, with 77% of food-insecure households being first-time sufferers. This challenging scenario emphasises the crucial need for action and support.
Since September Qudos Bank Arena has donated 346 kilograms of surplus food to Foodbank NSW & ACT. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond food donations, as Qudos Bank Arena plans to collaborate closely with Foodbank to identify surplus food for repurposing, thus reducing food waste and ensuring it reaches those who need it most.
Additionally, teams from Qudos Bank Arena and naming rights partner, Qudos Bank combined to pack 591 hampers at the Foodbank Distribution Centre, amounting to a total of 8,535 kilograms of food supply supporting Foodbank’s commendable goal of assembling 40,000 Christmas Hampers.
Qudos Bank Arena is dedicated to working with Foodbank NSW & ACT to help support the critical issues of food waste, community support, and environmental responsibility. This partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT stands as a testament to the Arena’s commitment to creating a positive impact in the community and the environment.
ABOUT ASM GLOBAL
ASM Global is the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences. It is the global leader in venue and event strategy and management – delivering locally tailored solutions and cutting-edge technologies to achieve maximum results for venue owners. The company’s elite venue network spans five continents, with a portfolio of more than 350 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention, and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Visit asmglobal.com
ASM GLOBAL (ASIA PACIFIC)
From its Asia Pacific regional headquarters in Brisbane, Australia, ASM Global operates a network of venues that includes:
Entertainment and Sports Arenas – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney; RAC Arena, Perth; Brisbane Entertainment Centre; Newcastle Entertainment Centre; Aware Super Theatre at ICC Sydney; BCEC Great Hall, Brisbane; Cairns Arena: Bangkok Arena and EM Live Theatre, Bangkok (under development), Coca Cola Arena, Dubai; Kai Tak Sports Park Indoor Arena (under construction), Hong Kong; Axiata Arena, Kuala Lumpur; and Jeddah Arena, Saudi Arabia (under development),
Live Performance Theatres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur and Bahrain,
Stadiums – Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, National Stadium Bukit Jalil in Kuala Lumpur, Kai Tak Sports Park Main Stadium, Hong Kong (under construction) and a significant ownership of VenuesLive, the operator of Accor Stadium, Sydney; CommBank Stadium, Parramatta; Optus Stadium, Perth and Central Coast Stadium, Gosford.
For more information, visit asmglobal.com
ABOUT TEG
TEG is a global leader in Live Entertainment, Ticketing and Technology. Every day TEG connects fans to experiences and customers with brands. We are proud partners of some of the world’s largest and most iconic venues as well as leading event promoters globally. TEG operates worldwide out of seven country offices and includes Ticketek, Ticketek Marketplace, Ticketek UK, Ticketek New Zealand, Ticketek Malaysia, Ticketek Philippines, Eventopia, Softix, TEG Live, TEG Dainty, TEG Sport, TEG Van Egmond, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, SXSW Sydney, TEG Theatrical, MJR Presents, TEG Lifelike Touring, TEG TES Live, Brickman, TEG Rockefeller, Rugby Live, TEG Europe, Propaganda, TEG USA, Qudos Bank Arena, FAN+, VIP NOW and Ovation.
Sam Smith’s ‘Gloria the Tour’ is about to take Australia by storm!
On Australia’s already bustling concert calendar for 2023 it’s Sam Smith’s fast approaching tour and imminent visit to Qudos Bank Arena that stands as one of the most promising.
Set to grace stages across the country as part of their ‘Gloria the Tour’, the powerhouse vocalist and pop star will bring their acclaimed namesake album to one of Australia’s biggest arenas as part of a six-date tour that runs from October 28 to November 8.
The hot ticket status of Smith’s Australian tour, which was announced in January of this year, resulted in the addition of a second date to their Sydney tour, with the singer now slated to perform back-to-back shows at Qudos Bank Arena. Head here for more ticket info.
So feverish was the reaction to ‘Gloria the Tour’ that Smith announced the release of more tickets for all six dates of their Australian run, with both reserve seats and general admission tickets now available even for shows that had previously sold out.
Thanks to American Express, there’s an exclusive invitation to the Amex Afters – an afterparty extravaganza that promises to end the night in style. So get ready for a performance that’s not just big, but absolutely colossal and unforgettable.
Taking place on November 3rd at the Qudos Bank Arena, the after party is reserved for the lucky first 400 ticket holders who register.
It’s the ultimate post-concert celebration, featuring an intimate live performance by a special guest, tons of giveaways, customisable merchandise, delicious refreshments, and countless photo opportunities.
And the best part? Hassle-free transportation back to Sydney and Parramatta CBDs once the night is over.
Speaking of the Australasian tour in a press statement, Smith said “we’re working hard on delivering an incredible show for you all [and] I can’t wait for you to see it.” Such fanfare surrounding Smith’s Australian visit is perhaps to be expected, given the certifiable success story that is their latest album Gloria.
Released in January, Smith’s fourth studio album is home to arguably their most successful single in the form of Unholy.
You’d be hard-pressed to escape the song’s infinitely catchy hook and sultry lyricism upon its release last September, and it rightfully earned both Smith and featured artist Kim Petras record-breaking status.
Unholy saw Smith tie with the likes of Oasis and the Rolling Stones as one of the holders of the most number-one singles in the UK, but the records didn’t stop there. The single reached number one on both Australia’s ARIA Charts and the Billboard charts in the US, with the latter feat making Petras and Smith the first transgender and non-binary singers, respectively, to reach Billboard’s top spot.
Unsurprisingly given its success, Unholy went on to win for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at this year’s Grammy Awards, bringing extra sheen to the already glistening tracklist of Gloria. Alongside Petras, the 13-song album features the likes of Ed Sheeran, Jessie Reyez and Calvin Harris, and finds Smith at their most confident and creatively fulfilled.
“30’s almost got me and I’m so over love songs,” Smith sings on album standout I’m Not Here To Make Friends, in a cheeky reference to their past discography and testament to the more free-spirited approach to life and music inherent on Gloria. So joyous is the album that Smith’s namesake tour in Europe and the US was deservedly met with widespread acclaim.
In a five-star review, Rolling Stone described Smith’s tour as a “riotous pop show,” while NME said the run of dates “feel like a new high watermark.”
We can only hope similar efforts are in store for Australia, especially since Smith’s last performance at the Qudos Bank Arena which took over Sydney for 3 MASSIVE nights as part of their ‘The Thrill Of It All’ World Tour in 2018.
Even beyond Gloria, Smith has been busy releasing a smattering of successful singles, including the recent Charli XCX collaboration In The City.
ElseElsewhere, Smith joined the likes of Billie Eilish, Mark Ronson and Dua Lipa on the soundtrack of the ever-buzzy Barbie movie, and joined forces with Madonna for the July single VULGAR. Smith is also a Tiny Desk alum as of this year, following their appearance on the NPR series last month.
All of this doesn’t even account for Smith’s archive of certified hits, from the 2014 breakout single Stay With Me to the James Bond contribution Writing’s on the Wall.
While it’s enough to ensure that their setlist for ‘Gloria the Tour’ will be stacked with tracks that somehow outdo each other, Smith’s influence extends well beyond the stage or studio. Smith broke ground in 2019 by coming out as non-binary, paving the way for both fellow musicians and legions of queer fans to embrace their identities.
“Queer youth are incredibly lucky to have artists like Sam Smith to look up to,” Happy Mag’s Corah Lyndon wrote earlier this year. “[Smith’s] shift is one of self-love and unapologetic queer joy.”
So, seize the opportunity to be part of this monumental musical event.
Secure your spot at ‘Gloria the Tour’, at Qudos Bank Arena, RSVP for Amex Afters, and prepare to be swept away by the resounding artistry of Sam Smith. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of this extraordinary musical event. Ensure your presence at ‘Gloria the Tour’ at Qudos Bank Arena by securing your spot here. RSVP for Amex Afters here, and brace yourself to be immersed in the profound artistry of Sam Smith.
For those who missed out initially, worry not. A limited number of tickets will be available on the night itself. Feel free to drop by after the performance and try your luck for a last-minute entry.
To find out more about what events are coming up at Qudos Bank Arena visit our upcoming events page here.
Qudos Bank Arena Partners with Gotcha4Life to Prioritise Mental Health
Qudos Bank Arena, announced Gotcha4Life as its official Mental Fitness Partner. Gotcha4Life, led by its founder Gus Worland, is a renowned organisation dedicated to improving mental health and well-being. The organisation focuses on building mental fitness and fostering emotional resilience with a vision of a future where no one must face mental health challenges alone.
The selection of mental health and well-being as a significant cause to support is in direct response to the findings of a comprehensive staff survey, which underscored the paramount importance of mental health for the team members of Qudos Bank Arena.
Steve Hevern, General Manager of Qudos Bank Arena, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “I am excited to officially welcome Gotcha4Life to the Qudos Bank Arena family as our official Mental Fitness Partner. It was clear from our staff that mental health was a standout cause for us to support, and the work that Gotcha4Life does in this area led to them being voted as our preferred Mental Fitness Partner. We look forward to a long-lasting relationship and making a difference in this important area.”
During a recent visit to Qudos Bank Arena, Gus Worland, Founder and Director of Gotcha4Life, introduced the Gotcha4Life program to all full-time staff members. He emphasised the significance of this partnership by highlighting the startling statistic: “We lose seven men every day and two women every day, that’s nine Aussies that woke up this morning that won’t wake up tomorrow morning.”
Qudos Bank Arena and Gotcha4Life are both dedicated to promoting mental well-being, providing support to individuals on their journey towards mental fitness, and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
The partnership will result in a share of cloaking proceeds dedicated to supporting Gotcha4Life and the delivery of a number of mental fitness workshops delivered to Qudos Bank Arena staff fostering an environment where individuals can openly discuss and address their mental health concerns.
Steve Hevern further explained, “as a business, we understand that building mental fitness is an ongoing journey, and it’s important to create a supportive environment where individuals feel empowered to take care of their mental well-being. By working alongside Gotcha4Life, who are experts in the field, we aim to integrate these practices into our business and establish a culture of mental wellness and resilience.”
The Qudos Bank Arena and Gotcha4Life partnership represent a significant step toward creating a society where mental health is a top priority. Together, they aim to provide resources, support, and opportunities for individuals to build their emotional resilience.
Mental Health Month in October 2023 marks the official launch of the partnership, underlining the shared commitment of both organisations to address mental health challenges and to nurture resilience within the community.
ASM Global is the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences. It is the global leader in venue and event strategy and management – delivering locally tailored solutions and cutting-edge technologies to achieve maximum results for venue owners. The company’s elite venue network spans five continents, with a portfolio of more than 350 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention, and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Visit asmglobal.com
ASM GLOBAL (ASIA PACIFIC)
From its Asia Pacific regional headquarters in Brisbane, Australia, ASM Global operates a network of venues that includes:
Entertainment and Sports Arenas – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney; RAC Arena, Perth; Brisbane Entertainment Centre; Newcastle Entertainment Centre; Aware Super Theatre at ICC Sydney; BCEC Great Hall, Brisbane; Cairns Arena: Bangkok Arena and EM Live Theatre, Bangkok (under development), Coca Cola Arena, Dubai; Kai Tak Sports Park Indoor Arena (under construction), Hong Kong; Axiata Arena, Kuala Lumpur; and Jeddah Arena, Saudi Arabia (under development),
Live Performance Theatres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur and Bahrain,
Stadiums – Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, National Stadium Bukit Jalil in Kuala Lumpur, Kai Tak Sports Park Main Stadium, Hong Kong (under construction) and a significant ownership of VenuesLive, the operator of Accor Stadium, Sydney; CommBank Stadium, Parramatta; Optus Stadium, Perth and Central Coast Stadium, Gosford.
For more information, visit asmglobal.com
ABOUT TEG
TEG is a global leader in Live Entertainment, Ticketing and Technology. Every day TEG connects fans to experiences and customers with brands. We are proud partners of some of the world’s largest and most iconic venues as well as leading event promoters globally. TEG operates worldwide out of seven country offices and includes Ticketek, Ticketek Marketplace, Ticketek UK, Ticketek New Zealand, Ticketek Malaysia, Ticketek Philippines, Eventopia, Softix, TEG Live, TEG Dainty, TEG Sport, TEG Van Egmond, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, SXSW Sydney, TEG Theatrical, MJR Presents, TEG Lifelike Touring, TEG TES Live, Brickman, TEG Rockefeller, Rugby Live, TEG Europe, Propaganda, TEG USA, Qudos Bank Arena, FAN+, VIP NOW and Ovation.
Qudos Bank Arena Announces CSR Partnership Program with Foodbank NSW & ACT, Gotcha4Life, and Starlight Children’s Foundation
On 17 October 2023 – Qudos Bank Arena, officially announced its new Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) community program with partners Foodbank NSW & ACT and Gotcha4Life. The announcement follows a comprehensive staff survey, revealing that mental health and sustainability are of paramount importance to Qudos Bank Arena’s team members, which compliments an extension of the Arena’s long-standing partnership with Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Since its inception in 1999 in preparation for the Sydney Olympics, Qudos Bank Arena has been dedicated to making a profound impact on the local community and this program will deliver a range of benefits to CSR Partners including monetary and inventory donations – including publicity activities, ticketing, and experiences.
Steve Hevern, General Manager, Qudos Bank Arena, stated, “Qudos Bank Arena is committed to driving positive change within the local Sydney Olympic Park community through focused CSR initiatives, aligning with the leadership demonstrated by the ASM Global Acts. We are delighted to announce Foodbank NSW & ACT, Gotcha4Life and Starlight Children’s Foundation as our official CSR partners. We believe these partnerships will not only benefit our business and team members but also have a significant positive impact on our community.”
Sustainability is a core business value for Qudos Bank Arena, and our partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT exemplifies this commitment. The Arena recently donated surplus food during the Tony Robbins event in September 2023 and plans to work closely with Foodbank to further identify surplus food for repurposing for the benefit of both the environment and those in need. Teams from the Arena and naming rights partner Qudos Bank, recently volunteered at the Foodbank Distribution Centre to undertake the packing of 591 hampers, totalling 8,535 kgs of food supply, in support of Foodbank’s impressive goal to assemble 40,000 Christmas Hampers over the ensuing months.
John Robertson, CEO, Foodbank NSW & ACT; “We are very excited to be joining Qudos Bank Arena as their new sustainability charity partner. Together, we will work to reduce food waste by redirecting surplus food from every major event at the Arena to people in our communities who need it most. We’re so grateful to also receive proceeds from their annual cloaking room program and look forward to seeing the positive impact of the partnership on the lives of Aussies doing it tough in our communities.”
Qudos Bank Arena is thrilled to announce a significant partnership with Gotcha4Life, a leading organisation dedicated to improving mental health and wellbeing. Founder and Director, Gus Worland, recently visited the Arena to introduce the Gotcha4Life program to all full-time staff, which was very well received. This partnership is set to officially launch this October, coinciding with Mental Health Month.
Gus Worland, Founder and Director of Gotcha4Life, “We are thrilled to partner with the team at Qudos Bank Arena. With our shared goals of bringing people together to connect and creating more opportunities in the community for our youth to build their mental fitness, we believe this partnership will be a key enabler not just within the QBA community, but beyond. Together, we will work towards creating a future where we can all be supported to build our emotional muscles, so no one worries alone.”
Qudos Bank Arena is also delighted to continue its collaboration with the Starlight Children’s Foundation, an organisation that has been bringing joy to the lives of seriously ill children for decades. Qudos Bank Arena initiated its partnership with the Starlight Children’s Foundation in 2017 when it was selected as one of the charities to receive support after being voted in by the Arena staff. Over the past six years, the Arena has proudly donated a total of $110,000 that was gifted for a wide range of events. Through these efforts, Qudos Bank Arena has positively impacted the lives of 2,820 children during the course of our enduring relationship with Starlight to date.
Louise Baxter, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation, expressed her gratitude, saying, “Qudos Bank Arena is a spectacular Venue with a wonderful team who are passionate about creating exceptional experiences. Seriously ill Starlight children and their families have enjoyed the joy and happiness of so many wonderful events and entertainments at Qudos Bank Arena. We are so thankful to the amazing Qudos Bank Arena team for their ongoing support of Starlight – helping us to brighten the lives of sick kids when they need it most and create lasting happy memories. Because happiness in childhood truly matters.”
In December, Qudos Bank Arena plans a special experience for a two-year-old named Happy Harry and his family during The Wiggles concert. This unforgettable experience will include a meet and greet with The Wiggles themselves, made possible with the collaboration of Accor, who is providing accommodation for Harry and his family.
In addition to the monetary donations, further opportunities are also being explored to support its CSR partners, such as donating event tickets and prizes, hosting events, complimentary function room hire, and encouraging its staff to volunteer and/or undergo workshops with its CSR partners. Qudos Bank Arena is excited about the future and the positive impact that these new CSR partnerships will bring to the community.
Photos and Video by Aaron Leslie
ABOUT ASM GLOBAL
ASM Global is the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences. It is the global leader in venue and event strategy and management – delivering locally tailored solutions and cutting-edge technologies to achieve maximum results for venue owners. The company’s elite venue network spans five continents, with a portfolio of more than 350 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention, and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Visit asmglobal.com
ASM GLOBAL (ASIA PACIFIC)
From its Asia Pacific regional headquarters in Brisbane, Australia, ASM Global operates a network of venues that includes:
Entertainment and Sports Arenas – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney; RAC Arena, Perth; Brisbane Entertainment Centre; Newcastle Entertainment Centre; Aware Super Theatre at ICC Sydney; BCEC Great Hall, Brisbane; Cairns Arena: Bangkok Arena and EM Live Theatre, Bangkok (under development), Coca Cola Arena, Dubai; Kai Tak Sports Park Indoor Arena (under construction), Hong Kong; Axiata Arena, Kuala Lumpur; and Jeddah Arena, Saudi Arabia (under development),
Live Performance Theatres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur and Bahrain,
Stadiums – Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, National Stadium Bukit Jalil in Kuala Lumpur, Kai Tak Sports Park Main Stadium, Hong Kong (under construction) and a significant ownership of VenuesLive, the operator of Accor Stadium, Sydney; CommBank Stadium, Parramatta; Optus Stadium, Perth and Central Coast Stadium, Gosford.
For more information, visit asmglobal.com
ABOUT TEG
TEG is a global leader in Live Entertainment, Ticketing and Technology. Every day TEG connects fans to experiences and customers with brands. We are proud partners of some of the world’s largest and most iconic venues as well as leading event promoters globally. TEG operates worldwide out of seven country offices and includes Ticketek, Ticketek Marketplace, Ticketek UK, Ticketek New Zealand, Ticketek Malaysia, Ticketek Philippines, Eventopia, Softix, TEG Live, TEG Dainty, TEG Sport, TEG Van Egmond, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, SXSW Sydney, TEG Theatrical, MJR Presents, TEG Lifelike Touring, TEG TES Live, Brickman, TEG Rockefeller, Rugby Live, TEG Europe, Propaganda, TEG USA, Qudos Bank Arena, FAN+, VIP NOW and Ovation.
Ultimate Fighting Championship Makes History: Record-Breaking Sales, Global Allure, and Epic Upset.
UFC 293, held at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on 10 September 2023, marked the promotion’s sixth visit to Sydney and first since November 2017. The event not only delivered twelve breathtaking bouts but also shattered records, showcased the UFC’s global appeal, and witnessed an unforgettable upset in the world of mixed martial arts.
The excitement surrounding UFC 293 was palpable from as early as the public on-sale with initial ticket allocations selling in an astonishing 13 minutes as fans rushed to secure their seats, amassing over $10.7 million in total ticket sales. This monumental result surpassed the previous Arena record held by the Rolling Stones by a remarkable 92%, highlighting the UFC’s unparalleled drawing power.
UFC 293 attracted fans from around the world, with a large number of attendees coming from outside New South Wales (NSW). This interstate turnout emphasised the UFC’s status as a global sports phenomenon and demonstrated the universal appeal of mixed martial arts.
“This is the third time a numbered UFC event has been held at Qudos Bank Arena and was by far the biggest”, said Qudos Bank Arena General Manager Steve Hevern. “It is really pleasing to see the momentum continuing to build post-COVID. It is clear that the fans have spoken and live entertainment is well and truly back. UFC 293 was one for the ages. It was a massive effort by the entire Arena team, and I couldn’t be prouder of their determination to deliver a seamless operation that produced memorable experiences across the board.”
The event reached its zenith with the main event, where Sean Strickland defeated Israel Adesanya for the UFC middleweight championship belt. This victory will be remembered as one of the most significant upsets in recent MMA history.
The presence of over 1,000 corporate guests at UFC 293 highlighted the growing corporate support for the sporting extravaganza. The 360-degree configuration of the main auditorium allowed for the opening of the Contender Lounge, a unique super suite that offered a premium setting for over 100 guests. It was a record-breaking night for corporate sales, emphasising the increasing recognition of UFC’s global reach across all price categories.
UFC 293 wasn’t limited to the action inside the Arena, it spilled out into the community with two free events attended by thousands of fans, with the Press Conference on Thursday and Ceremonial Weigh-Ins on Friday adding to the excitement of the week. The UFC Fan Experience outside the venue provided fans with an immersive experience, allowing them to partake in activities that included athlete interviews, Legacy belt, Fighter faceoffs, striking machines, and access to merchandise.
Further to breaking records in ticket sales and corporate support, there was also a staggering number of food and beverage serves as fans enjoyed the event to the fullest, adding to the overall spectacle.
“Fans had waited six long years for UFC to return to Sydney and they celebrated by turning out in record numbers for an unforgettable week of events, culminating with an incredible fight card last Sunday at Qudos Bank Arena”, said UFC Vice President Australia and New Zealand, Peter Kloczko.
“We are incredibly proud to have partnered with the NSW Government to deliver a brilliant program of events for UFC 293 fight week that captivated MMA fans across the city and thousands more that travelled to Sydney from far and wide to immerse themselves in the action.”
UFC 293 will be remembered as a historic occasion that transcended the Octagon. It showcased the UFC’s global allure, shattered records, and delivered a heroic upset that left fans in awe. As the UFC continues to captivate audiences worldwide, events like UFC 293 serve as a testament to the enduring power of mixed martial arts to unite fans, athletes, and corporate partners in shared moments of excitement and triumph.
ABOUT ASM GLOBAL
ASM Global is the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences. It is the global leader in venue and event strategy and management – delivering locally tailored solutions and cutting-edge technologies to achieve maximum results for venue owners. The company’s elite venue network spans five continents, with a portfolio of more than 350 of the world’s most prestigious arenas, stadiums, convention, and exhibition centers, and performing arts venues.
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ASM GLOBAL (ASIA PACIFIC)
From its Asia Pacific regional headquarters in Brisbane, Australia, ASM Global operates a network of venues that includes:
Entertainment and Sports Arenas – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney; RAC Arena, Perth; Brisbane Entertainment Centre; Newcastle Entertainment Centre; Aware Super Theatre at ICC Sydney; BCEC Great Hall, Brisbane; Cairns Arena: Bangkok Arena and EM Live Theatre, Bangkok (under development), Coca Cola Arena, Dubai; Kai Tak Sports Park Indoor Arena (under construction), Hong Kong; Axiata Arena, Kuala Lumpur; and Jeddah Arena, Saudi Arabia (under development),
Live Performance Theatres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Sydney, Kuala Lumpur and Bahrain,
Stadiums – Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, National Stadium Bukit Jalil in Kuala Lumpur, Kai Tak Sports Park Main Stadium, Hong Kong (under construction) and a significant ownership of VenuesLive, the operator of Accor Stadium, Sydney; CommBank Stadium, Parramatta; Optus Stadium, Perth and Central Coast Stadium, Gosford.
For more information, visit asmglobal.com
ABOUT TEG
TEG is a global leader in Live Entertainment, Ticketing and Technology. Every day TEG connects fans to experiences and customers with brands. We are proud partners of some of the world’s largest and most iconic venues as well as leading event promoters globally. TEG operates worldwide out of seven country offices and includes Ticketek, Ticketek Marketplace, Ticketek UK, Ticketek New Zealand, Ticketek Malaysia, Ticketek Philippines, Eventopia, Softix, TEG Live, TEG Dainty, TEG Sport, TEG Van Egmond, Laneway Festival, Handsome Tours, SXSW Sydney, TEG Theatrical, MJR Presents, TEG Lifelike Touring, TEG TES Live, Brickman, TEG Rockefeller, Rugby Live, TEG Europe, Propaganda, TEG USA, Qudos Bank Arena, FAN+, VIP NOW and Ovation.
