We caught up with The Courier-Mail Editor Chris Jones and Nova’s David “Luttsy” Lutteral – co-hosts of the Toward the Games: Brisbane 2032 podcast – to talk Olympic and Paralympic buzz, the stories shaping our city, and the legacy they hope to leave behind.

Their dream 2032 headlines? Chris is chasing gold, while Luttsy’s dreaming global.

 

You’ve teamed up for the podcast to dig into the decisions and hear from the people shaping the city. What’s something important about Brisbane 2032 that you think isn’t getting enough attention?

Chris: Honestly, I don’t think people fully appreciate what’s coming. Unless you’ve lived through a Games, you can’t grasp the scale, the global spotlight, the pride. Brisbane’s about to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with cities like London, Tokyo and Paris – and that moment, when the Opening Ceremony kicks off, will be like nothing else.

Luttsy: I agree. And I think we’ve missed a beat on building excitement, especially with kids. Legacy isn’t just what happens after the Games. It starts now. We need to get young people fired up about what this means. Because it touches every industry, every demographic. The faster you find your space in this story, the more powerful the journey.

What’s your dream headline about Brisbane seven years from now?

Chris: “Australia tops the Paralympic medal tally.” That’s the kind of legacy we should be chasing.

Luttsy: For me, it’s about international recognition. I want to see a New York Times headline that says, “Brisbane has arrived.” We’re not trying to be Sydney or London – we’re becoming something uniquely ours, and global attention is part of that.

The media landscape has shifted dramatically over the past decade. In 2032, what media do you think will dominate? TikToks, podcasts, newspapers - or something new?

Chris: Platforms will evolve. We don’t know exactly where audiences will be in 2032, maybe it’s TikTok, maybe it’s something that hasn’t even been invented yet. But what won’t change is the power of a good story. Storytelling is how we connect. It’s how we share pride, emotion, identity. And Brisbane’s about to tell the greatest story on Earth – we’ve just got to make sure we tell it well.

Luttsy: Yeah, the delivery might change. How people watch sport, how they get their content. But what stays the same is the heart. The drama, the underdog moments, the triumphs. That’s the stuff people remember. Whether you’re seeing it on a phone screen or in a stadium, you’re part of something bigger. And that’s what makes the Games so powerful.

Chris, what role do you think The Courier-Mail has in pushing Brisbane forward over the next five years and beyond?

Chris: We don’t just report on Brisbane; we campaign for it. It’s a privilege. We live in this community. We care. Whether it’s supporting the Games or calling out poor planning decisions, our job is to push for the best version of this city. And right now, that means unlocking once-in-a-lifetime infrastructure and cultural opportunities.

Luttsy, you’ve been a reassuring voice in people’s ears for years. There’ll be plenty of headlines between now and the Games, but what do you think matters most to everyday Brisbanites?

Luttsy: Fun. Quality of life. That’s what people care about. We’re lucky, we live in a pretty special place. And the Olympics and Paralympics give us this incredible opportunity to make it even better. We’re not just talking sport; we’re talking about the whole experience of living here. Shorter commutes. More time with family. Better infrastructure. More pride in our city. The Games should leave a legacy that lifts everyday life for everyone in Brisbane. That’s the real goal.

How can Brisbane businesses work with the media to tell their stories, grow their businesses or make an impact locally and globally?

Chris: The media is always looking for a good story, but it has to be clear, timely and relevant. Be bold about what makes you different and don’t be afraid to reach out. We want to showcase local success and help build momentum for Brisbane, especially in the lead-up to 2032. There's never been a better time to put your business forward.

Luttsy: Ask yourself: what’s your space in this story? Every industry, every classroom, every corner of the city can find a way to connect. Start now. Think outside the square. The businesses and people who do that will be the ones who thrive, before, during and long after the Games.

As leading voices in Brisbane, what legacy do you hope to leave behind for the city?

Luttsy: I want to have the biggest positive influence I can on these Games. Whether it’s through our podcast, radio, or just helping drive the narrative, I hope I am adding some energy and fun to the city.

Chris: I want to help cut through the red tape and unlock the potential of our river. It’s our city’s heart, and we’ve only scratched the surface. Beyond that? I just want to help steer Brisbane toward the future we all know it deserves.

Your ultimate weekend in Brisbane – no budget, no boundaries.

Luttsy: World-class sport, good food, and sharing the city with mates. I’d hit Howard Smith Wharves, maybe dinner at Stanley or Walter’s, then a packed-out Suncorp Stadium. Dream scenario? Watching Brisbane host the 2031 World Athletics Championships at the new Victoria Park Stadium, with hometown heroes like Gout Gout and Lachie Kennedy sprinting to gold.

Chris: For me, it’s all about the river. I’d start with a cruise up the Brisbane River, head over to Tangalooma for some snorkelling and fishing, then wrap the day at Mr Percival’s with a sundowner and a steak nearby. Then repeat. Simple as that.

Finally, Lachie Kennedy or Gout Gout – who is winning in 2032?

Luttsy: My dream would be Lachie winning the 100, Gout the 200, then combining to win gold in the 4x100 relay team. All in front of a packed house at “The B”, Victoria Park Stadium, with an unprecedented atmosphere and decibel breaking roar!

Chris: Absolutely, well said Luttsy. The winner is Brisbane!