Hobart Concert Hall Opposes ‘Noisy’ AFL Stadium Being Built 170 Metres From Its Stage

The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra (TSO) is opposing a proposed $775 million AFL stadium just 170 meters from its concert hall in Hobart, citing concerns about noise and vibration. TSO chief executive Caroline Sharpen highlighted the lack of precedents for such close proximity, emphasizing that both of the orchestra’s independent acoustic reports flagged significant issues regarding potential sound spill and reverberation. She criticized the reliance on management mitigation instead of preventative measures, questioning the future relationship between the TSO and the AFL.

The concert hall, which hosts hundreds of events annually and underwent a $1.3 million upgrade, generates $14 million in revenue, making it Tasmania's top cultural export. The stadium is expected to hold 36-51 major events yearly, raising fears about crowd noise impacting TSO performances.

Sharpen expressed support for the Tasmania Devils but opposed the chosen site, echoing broader community concerns. The TSO will join the Tasmanian RSL in a vigil and free concert on November 10 to protest against the stadium's location, which the RSL argues will obstruct views of Hobart's cenotaph, Australia's oldest war memorial. The state government stated that public consultations will include the TSO, but the orchestra has struggled to secure discussions with senior officials.