A popular hockey precinct will be a training ground for potential future Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games athletes following a major upgrade.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner today joined the official reopening event for the Brisbane North Hockey Centre in Chermside following an upgrade of the playing surface.
Council contributed $175,000 towards the club’s two new turfed hockey fields from the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Grants initiative.
“These grants have proven extremely effective in getting much-needed funds to community groups so they can improve their facilities for everyone to enjoy,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Our sporting clubs and community groups play a vital role in our community, helping keep people of all ages fit and active and engaged in their local area.
“These clubs are run by locals for locals and we know how challenging it can be for them to fund and deliver upgrades.
“Our Council team is committed to supporting these groups who help make Brisbane such a great place to live, work and relax.”
Since opening in August 2021, the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Grants has given more than $3.3 million to more than 160 different community organisations.
The grants comprise of two categories, Community Facilities and Community Support.
“The community facility category of the program makes sure physical works within community clubs can be completed to a safe and high standard.” Cr Schrinner shared.
“After being originally opened in 2001 and having 12 long years of use between services, the playing surface of field one will be replaced, along with the underlying shockpad to increase the playability and safety of the field.”
Cr Schrinner said these updated facilities will be vital in putting aspiring hockey players through their paces in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic games.
“Over 250 players from the under 18 junior girls Wolf Cup will christen the field this weekend.” Cr Schrinner said.
“These players are some of the best from across Brisbane and South East Queensland, and are part of the age group that could qualify for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic games.
“We want to make sure community clubs across Brisbane can provide the kind of facilities to train the Olympians of tomorrow.
“Council’s investment in community and sports club makes sure that these assets will be able to service residents for years to come.”
For more information on applying for the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Grants, visit https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/community-and-safety/grants-awards-and-sponsorships/community-grants/lord-mayors-better-suburbs-grants
