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The Ten Must-See Events To Catch At Qudos Bank Arena Over The Next Two Months

Revellers across the country know that Qudos Bank Arena is the site of all the hottest-ticket events. Last year, the iconic Sydney venue played host to an array of live music, sporting, and experience-based events, welcoming a list of artists and organisers so starry it warrants its own constellation. 

While you’d think it’d be tricky for a venue who recently hosted Lizzo, 50 Cent and BLACKPINK to outdo itself, Qudos Bank Arena is poised to do just that this coming year. Sporting legends and musician icons alike are all set to walk the venue’s hallowed halls in early 2024, kickstarting what will undoubtedly be another mammoth year for Australia’s most revered venue. 

With such a bustling event calendar for attendees of all stripes, we’re sifting through the biggest events to catch over February and March, 2024. Head here to see Qudos Bank Arena’s full upcoming event calendar.

Louis Tomlinson – February 2

Renowned singer-songwriter and One Direction alum Louis Tomlinson will bring his Faith In The Future World Tour to Qudos Bank Arena in early February. Armed with a stack of chart-topping hits, including those from the tour’s namesake album, Tomlinson’s concert promises a night of stellar tunes for boy band fanatics and music fans alike. Find tickets here.

NF – February 9

Launched in support of his studio album HOPE, NF’s world tour has already taken him to sold-out shows in Europe, Canada and the US. On February 9, it’s Australia’s turn, as the acclaimed rapper, producer and singer overruns Qudos Bank Arena with his catalogue of hits from HAPPY to MOTTO. Find tickets here. 

Sydney Kings vs Illawarra Hawks — February 11

In what will mark Sydney’s final home game of the regular season, the Kings will take to the court alongside their Freeway Series rivals the Illawarra on February 11 as they look to secure a playoff spot. The much-anticipated match will see the teams battle for the coveted Adrian Hurley Cup, bookending an already exhilarating season. Find tickets here. 

Matchbox Twenty — February 20 and February 22

Last year, Matchbox Twenty released their first new music in over a decade with the acclaimed album Where The Light Goes. While that might’ve been enough to satiate diehard fans, the rock band are doubling down with an accompanying tour, set to span the entirety of their decades-long career. What’s more, Matchbox Twenty have tapped Goo Goo Dolls as special guests, sharing the spotlight at two Qudos Bank Arena shows in late February. Find tickets here. 

Blink-182 — February 16 – 17, February 23 – 24

Reuniting the bandmates for the first time in nearly 10 years, Blink-182’s tour is perhaps the most anticipated music event of the year, and it’s all going down over four nights at Qudos Bank Arena. The trio’s Australian jaunt is their biggest ever, promising the long-awaited return of the world’s most revered pop punk band. Find tickets here. 

Jonas Brothers — March 1 – 2

Jonas Brothers’ two-night run of shows at Qudos Bank Arena will be the stuff of your tween fandom dreams. In what will mark their first-ever performances in Australia, the sibling trio will steal the spotlight at Qudos Bank Arena with a setlist brimming with chart-toppers and tracks from their most recent 2023 record, The Album. Find tickets here.

Joker Xue — March 23

Joker Xue’s Extraterrestrial Tour goes far beyond his smash hit songs. Of course, audiences will enjoy the Mandopop star’s biggest hits, lifted from his 10-album discography, but will also bear witness to an experiential narrative involving alien invasions and apocalyptic events. This music-meets-storytelling experience will descend upon Qudos Bank Arena on March 23. Find tickets here. 

$UICIDEBOY$ — March 30

Pioneers of the trap-metal and emo-rap scene, $UICIDEBOY$ carved new corners of their sound with their latest album Sing Me a Lullaby, My Sweet Temptation. That project, and a suite of their other biggest hits, will steal the spotlight at the cousin duo’s Australian show at Qudos Bank Arena on March 30. It’s a fitting stage for an act who are among the top 100 most-streamed artists in the world. Find tickets here. 

Qudos Bank Arena and Starlight Children’s Foundation grant a life changing Christmas wish in partnership together

Qudos Bank Arena, managed by ASM Global and owned by TEG, is thrilled to announce the continuation of its long-term partnership with the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Known for bringing fun, joy and laughter to sick kids and their families, Starlight has been a beacon of hope since 1988.

Qudos Bank Arena initiated its collaboration with the Starlight in 2017, and over the past six years, the Arena has proudly donated a total of $110,000, contributing to various events and positively impacting the lives of 2,820 children.

On Saturday 16 December 2023, the organisations continued to join forces and fulfilled the heartfelt wish of 2-year-old Harry and his family, from Regional NSW, for a fully catered VIP experience at The Wiggles concert. The family also enjoyed an exclusive meet-and-greet session with The Wiggles and Qudos Bank Arena’s diamond partner, Accor, generously provided 3-night’s accommodation for the family at the Pullman Sydney Olympic Park.

Steve Hevern, General Manager of Qudos Bank Arena, stated that, “This initiative brings pride to what we do at the Arena and connects back to our core values of being the venue of choice by creating memorable experiences for everyone that enters our building. This partnership brings me great joy, and I can’t wait to see how we continue to help Starlight fulfil wishes.”

This partnership exemplifies the shared commitment of Qudos Bank Arena and Starlight to creating cherished memories, uplifting spirits, and spreading joy while supporting the Starlight Foundation’s Christmas appeal.

Louise Baxter, Starlight CEO said: “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.”

Qudos Bank Arena looks forward to the future and the ongoing impact of its partnership with Starlight Children’s Foundation, creating more moments of joy and hope for seriously ill children.

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,
• Convention & Exhibition Centres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Newcastle, Sydney, Christchurch, Kuala Lumpur, Shenzhen, Bahrain (under construction), and Jeddah (under development), and;
• 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.

About Starlight
Starlight Children’s Foundation brightens the lives of seriously ill and hospitalised children and young people by replacing pain, fear and stress with fun, joy and laughter. Since its establishment in 1988, Starlight has expanded to become the broadest reaching children’s charity in Australia and was awarded the number one most reputable children’s charity in Reptrak’s 2022 Charity Reputation Index. Starlight was also recently endorsed as a 2023 Great Place to Work. There is a Starlight Express Room in every children’s hospital across Australia and over 140 Captain Starlight’s nationwide, who made 186 trips to remote communities in 2022. Starlight created over 1,303, 775 positive Starlight experiences for children, teenagers, and their families in 2022. Last year, Starlight granted 507 wishes and this year, Starlight will grant its 13,000th Starlight Wish. www.starlight.org.au

Qudos Bank Arena have your Christmas wish list sorted with a stack of upcoming events

Each year, Christmastime rolls around and our collective shopping carts — if they aren’t completely empty — are filled with all the obvious staples. In between nondescript vouchers, books and bon-bons, it can be tricky to find a truly memorable gift for friends and family; one that isn’t destined for the back of their closets or dusty shelves.

With such an excess of choice, the best gift-givers know that the ultimate present is not a pair of pyjamas, but a truly memorable experience. Gifting a loved one tickets to their bucket list concert or sporting match spreads far more holiday cheer than a traditional stocking stuffer, and thankfully Qudos Bank Arena has a calendar stacked enough to account for all of your loved ones’ passions — with more exciting events yet to be announced. 

From starry and much-anticipated concerts to hilarious comedy sets, family friendly affairs, and sporting events there’s something for everyone to enjoy within Qudos Bank Arena’s upcoming events schedule. Spanning events for the remainder of the year and beyond, we’ve filled out your Christmas wish list with an array of experience-based gift ideas, so that your loved ones don’t have to bemoan a new pair of socks this festive season.

Music: Iron Maiden, Louis Tomlinson, Jonas Brothers 

Where else to watch your favourite musician than at Qudos Bank Arena? This year has already seen the world’s biggest musicians grace the stage at the iconic venue, but there’s still time to snap up tickets to remaining 2023 shows and beyond. The rock fans in your life will surely want to revel in the shows from Iron Maiden (12 – 13 September), while the boy band fanatics can eat their heart out with Louis Tomlinson (2 February) and Jonas Brothers (1 – 2 March). 

For their part, iconic girl group TLC will bring smash hits like No Scrubs to Qudos Bank Arena on 5 March 2024. While that roster is starry enough to warrant its own constellation, it’s only the tip of the iceberg. Grant the music lovers in your life their ultimate wish with Qudos Bank Arena’s full concert schedule here.

Comedy: Jerry Seinfield

They say laughter is the best medicine, and Qudos Bank Arena is giving you and your loved ones a much-needed dose with their upcoming comedy schedule. Jerry Seinfield — you know, the namesake of history’s most beloved sitcom — will bring his riotous set to the venue on June 16, after selling out his previous comedy tours in 2017. The very nature of a stand-up show means this gift is destined for smiles-all-round. Find more information here. 

Fun for the family: Marvel, Hot Wheels and Monster Truck Mania.

Gift-giving for kids is its own beast, with the hottest toys often selling out or quickly becoming last week’s news (remember Tamagotchis?). Thankfully, parents can breathe a collective sigh of relief, as Qudos Bank Arena takes the guesswork out of childrens’ wish lists with an array of family friendly events. 

With a gift that’ll win you the parent of the year award, Qudos Bank Arena will host Marvel Universe LIVE! next April. An immersive live show of cutting-edge special effects, aerial stunts and video projection, the event will feature beloved heroes like Spider-Man, Thor and Hulk, and is sure to earn you big points for the little superheros in your life. Find more information here.

Later, Hot Wheels will bring its famous trucks to life with the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live Glow Party in August. Little revheads can bear witness to real-life versions of their favourite toy trucks, which will compete in outrageous competitions and battles. The Glow Party also features a dazzling dance party, spectacular laser show and Hot Wheels toy giveaways. Find more information here. 

Hot Wheels is one of two truck shows for your family to enjoy at Qudos Bank Arena next year, with the venue also set to host Monster Truck Mania in early-May. Roaring into the venue are Australia’s biggest monster machines, from the beloved ‘Raptor’s Rampage’ to the kids’ favourites ‘Buddy’ and ‘Miss Mayhem’. Back-flipping, flame-throwing and Freestyle Motocross abound. Find more information here.

Sports: Sydney Kings and Harlem Globetrotters

Qudos Bank Arena has long been the home base of the sporting world’s most coveted events, and they’ve got you covered yet again with a starry basketball program. As the home of the Sydney Kings, the venue will host the team’s matches for the remainder of the year, promising courtside entertainment with games against the Illawarra Hawks and Cairns Taipans. The Kings will dribble into the new year with matches slated until mid-February. Find more information here.

Taking basketball enthusiasts international, Qudos Bank Arena will also welcome back the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters as part of the beloved teams 2024 world tour. In what promises to deliver out-of-this-world trick shots, dunks, and insane plays, the Harlem Globetrotters will face-off against their rivals the Washington Generals on July 7, securing the game as the ultimate gift for the sports fans in your life. Find more information here.    

Qudos Bank Arena Sydney named in the top ten live music venues in the world

Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena, a TEG owned venue that is proudly operated by ASM Global, has solidified its standing among the global elite of live music venues, recently securing an impressive spot in Billboard’s prestigious top ten list.

Notably, it is the sole venue from the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region to achieve this distinction. 

In the recently released 2023 year-end box score charts, Qudos Bank Arena claimed the 7th position globally for top honours among venues with a capacity of 15,000 or more (excluding stadiums).

This achievement places the Sydney-based arena in solid company, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with iconic venues such as New York’s Madison Square Garden, London’s O2 Arena, Manchester’s AO Arena and Brooklyn’s Barclays Centre.

During Billboard’s tracking period from November 2022 to September 2023, Qudos Bank Arena boasted a substantial $79.4 million in ticket sales. Impressively, the venue played host to over 785,000 guests across 75 shows during this timeframe, further solidifying its reputation as a powerhouse in the live music scene. 

“As the proud owner of Qudos Bank Arena, we at TEG are delighted to see the venue ranked so highly on the world stage alongside some of most iconic venues on the planet,” said Geoff Jones, CEO, TEG.

Qudos Bank Arena’s remarkable success underscores its pivotal role in the global music landscape, showcasing its ability to draw massive crowds and contribute significantly to the industry’s economic landscape.

Emerging onto the scene during the spirited Sydney Olympics in 2000, this monumental arena, with a colossal capacity of 21,389, has become a powerhouse on the international entertainment stage. 

From hosting out loud comedy extravaganzas to mind-blowing musical performances, Qudos Bank Arena has earned its elite status as one of the world’s premier music venues. 

Billboard’s recent recognition only confirms what fans already know—this arena doesn’t just host a show; it commands the spotlight on a global scale. 

Diversity is the name of the game at Qudos Bank Arena, with a line-up as eclectic as your meticulously curated Spotify playlist. The spectrum ranges from Gabriel Iglesias to The Wiggles, and Sam Smith’s phenomenal Gloria tour to the grand finale of 50 Cent’s ‘Final Lap Tour’ that’s about to hit on December 8 and 9. 

Billboard’s nod extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it’s a recognition of Qudos Bank Arena’s role as the stage of preference for some of the highest-selling artists of 2023. 

“Qudos Bank Arena being recognised as the seventh ranked venue worldwide and the only Arena in the APAC region in the top ten is a huge achievement. This is a testament to the resilience of the live entertainment industry in the post-Covid era and our team’s professionalism and devotion”, said Steve Hevern, General Manager, Qudos Bank Arena.

Qudos Bank Arena has long shone a spotlight on the crème de la crème of the music industry. The roster reads like a who’s who of global music icons, including Prince, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Madonna, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Lady Gaga, Motley Crue, Kendrick Lamar, Bruce Springsteen, Dua Lipa, Andrea Bocelli, The Rolling Stones, Metallica, Billie Eilish, and Justin Bieber. 

Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney stands as a true gem, having witnessed pivotal moments in history. For millennials, it’s akin to connecting the dots between the awe-inspiring Sydney 2000 Olympics and the record-breaking gigs featuring stars like P!NK, Bruno Mars, and Justin Timberlake.

A resounding shoutout is due to the diligent crew at Qudos Bank Arena. Billboard’s recognition isn’t just a feather in their cap; it’s a high-five to their unwavering dedication and a celebration of the electrifying vibe that they inject into the live music scene.  

This Arena has been the canvas for countless memorable Aussie moments, creating shared experiences that resonate across generations. 

As Qudos Bank Arena gears up for its next chapter, anticipation lingers in the air like a prelude to a symphony.  

We find ourselves perched on the edge of our seats, eagerly awaiting the next wave of jaw-dropping performances that will undoubtedly etch new memories into the annals of this iconic venue. 

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,
• Convention & Exhibition Centres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Newcastle, Sydney, Christchurch, Kuala Lumpur, Shenzhen, Bahrain (under construction), and Jeddah (under development), and;
• 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 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.

Donate Here

Foodbank ACT & NSW

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. 

All donations $2 and over are tax deductible.

Donate Here

Gotcha4Life Foundation

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.

Order Here

Ausmusic T-Shirt Day

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. 

Donate Here

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.

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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.

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Lizzo

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,

Convention & Exhibition Centres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Newcastle, Sydney, Christchurch, Kuala Lumpur, Shenzhen, Bahrain (under construction), and Jeddah (under development), and;

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.

For more information about Gotcha4Life, please visit: https://www.gotcha4life.org 

Gotcha4Life does not provide crisis intervention or counselling. Please see the list of services that can help here: https://www.gotcha4life.org/help-resources

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,

Convention & Exhibition Centres – Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Newcastle, Sydney, Christchurch, Kuala Lumpur, Shenzhen, Bahrain (under construction), and Jeddah (under development), and;

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.