An LNP Government will commit $350,000 to fast-track the development of detailed plans for a new multi-purpose sports facility at Coolum State High School.
Ninderry MP Dan Purdie said a new $8million facility located at Coolum High, currently in design phase, would feature two senior AFL ovals, a senior cricket oval, 12 netball hard courts, a multi-use clubhouse, 150 car parks and an access road.
“For the past three years, I have been working with Council, Coolum State High and our local AFL and cricket clubs to progress plans for new sports fields to help take the pressure off our existing facilities,” Mr Purdie said.
“With the Coolum Sports Complex at capacity, we are in desperate need for additional facilities to not only accommodate our growing population, but also the demand in these codes,” Mr Purdie said.
“This funding will help fast-track the detailed designs so that work can start sooner,” Mr Purdie said.
Shadow Minister for Sport and Racing, John-Paul Langbroek said the LNP was committed to delivering healthy, active communities, and partnering with government and community agencies to achieve cost-efficiencies and other benefits.
“This is a great example of government and community working together to achieve positive, cost effective outcomes,” Mr Lanbroek said.
“Through this partnership with Council, the Department of Education and the school community we will be able to deliver a first class sports facility that will benefit not only the students of Coolum High, but also the wider community.”
Coolum Beach Breakers President Dean Blackborough said the club’s growth was being restricted and players were being turned away due to the capacity of the existing field at Coolum High.
“We are extremely grateful that we have been offered a seat at the table in these negotiations which will be a win-win for our club and the wider community,” Mr Blackborough said.
Coolum Cricket Club President Martin Bristow welcomed the news.
“The addition of another cricket oval in Coolum Beach is a wonderful initiative. Our club has grown substantially over recent years, at both a junior and senior cricket level, and the proposed new facility will allow the club to continue this growth,” Mr Bristow said.