Considered the unofficial king of north Queensland, Johnathan Thurston has summoned his inner-politician to again pressure Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to fund a new stadium in Townsville.
The North Queensland Cowboys co-captain stood alongside Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt on Friday as he announced a $50 million funding boost for the project, which will see the state's contribution increase from $100 million to $140 million.
Another $10 million boost will come from the NRL premiership-winning Cowboys, who will take out a loan and pay 10 years' rent for the venue upfront.
The NRL will also underwrite the commitment by agreeing to fund interest payments on the loan.
Having already demanded a new stadium while sharing the stage with Mr Turnbull following his grand final heroics last year, Thurston's renewed calls were far more polished, indicating his determination to see the campaign through.
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"It's (about) just more than the stadium," the Test and Queensland five-eighth said, echoing comments previously made by the treasurer.
"This is about creating jobs.
"We understand that north Queensland - in particular Townsville - families are doing it tough and this is going to, no doubt, put some confidence back into this region, so we're very thankful for that."
Thurston insisted his campaign was about the community, not himself.
"It'd mean a lot to the Cowboys obviously (but) by the time it's built, I'll probably be retired," he said.
"Now we need the federal government to stand up and make a commitment."
The announcement means the $250 million project will definitely go ahead if Labor wins the July 2 federal election, given Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has already pledged $100 million.
"It is about ensuring we put pressure on the Turnbull government to match this funding," Mr Pitt said.
"There is only one missing piece now that will put this issue beyond doubt and that is a commitment from the Turnbull government for $100 million."
Mr Pitt conceded the $250 million funding total would only pay for the stadium itself and not the community's preferred integrated entertainment precinct model.
"We know that there is very keen interest in helping develop the entire area," he said.
"That's what the priority development area is all about - to look at other things that could help activate the Townsville CBD."
Mr Pitt said costings for the increased funding would be outlined in Tuesday's state budget.
