Thousands March in Support of Proposed Hobart Stadium

Thousands of Tasmanians have shown their support for the proposed multi-purpose Hobart stadium by marching in the streets, with organizers stating that the 'silent majority' is finally being heard.

Mark Brown, founder of the 'YES AFL TEAM – YES STADIUM' Facebook group, arranged the rally, which had been planned for months and scheduled on a weekend without local footy.

Despite concerns about wet weather affecting the turnout, Brown mentioned that the crowd exceeded expectations, marching from the TCA Ground at Queens Domain to North Hobart Oval.

'The silent majority has now spoken up,' he told reporters. 'The Greens, the independents who oppose the stadium – they do not represent me. They do not represent the over 23,000 people in my group. They do not represent the people who attended today.'

Brown highlighted that pro-development voices had been silent for too long, while the 'loud minority' of opponents dominated the media.

The march coincided with the Tasmanian elections, with the stadium being a significant issue. Brown urged opponents to present a clear alternative for boosting the state's economy.

'If you are against the stadium, what is your plan to bring in over $200 million into our economy annually?' he questioned. 'Without a stadium, we lose this revenue that could be invested in healthcare, education, housing.'

He referenced an independent Hobart City Council report estimating that construction would inject half a billion dollars into the local economy over four years.

Despite being a long-time Labor supporter, Brown revealed that the stadium debate led him to switch to the Liberal side due to Labor's initial opposition to the stadium.

'It was only with this issue, with the stadium when it was first announced, that I've switched sides,' he stated.

The Liberals have committed to proceeding with the stadium and its supporting legislation if re-elected. Labor leader Dean Winter has also expressed unconditional support for the project and enabling legislation.

On the other hand, the Greens have pledged to obstruct the stadium at every opportunity.