Suncorp Stadium, or Lang Park as it was formerly known, was originally a cemetery in the Brisbane suburb of Milton. After playing host to several different sports, the Brisbane Rugby League would officially take over the lease in 1957 and to this day it is the unofficial home of Rugby League in Queensland.
In 1980 the ground would play host to the first ever State of Origin match, one of the most ground-breaking moments in the history of Rugby League. In 2001, construction began to develop Lang Park into a three-tiered rectangular stadium. In 2003, the stadium now known as Suncorp Stadium would host its first Rugby League match. Since the redevelopment, Suncorp has often been referred to as the best rectangular rugby league stadium in the world. Holding a capacity of 52,500 there is hardly a bad seat in the house. A testament to the stadium, Suncorp is often given large alternate fixtures such as World Cup finals, with games being played there in 2008 and 2017.
In 2011, the ground would suffer severe water damage due to the floods that destroyed Queensland. This would see the entire ground being covered in flood water and would only just be ready in time for the start of the 2011 season. Temporary dressing sheds were installed underneath the grandstand during 2011.
Many players, but particularly NSW State of Origin players, find it difficult to play at “the Cauldron” due to the hostile vocal atmosphere the stadium creates. The Stadium continues produce the largest average crowds in the NRL for Broncos home games, as the Brisbane faithful get out to support their beloved Broncs. The stadium is also the home ground for the Queensland Reds in the Super 15 and the Brisbane Roar in the A-League.
