Highfields scores with second stage of indoor sports centre: Fraser

December 3, 2006

Highfields scores with second stage of indoor sports centre: Fraser

A new gym at the Highfields Indoor Sports Centre has paved the way for child care facilities which have in turned opened the doors for more mums and dads to get out, get active and get fit.

Sport Minister Andrew Fraser today officially opened the second stage of the centre and revealed that since it was completed membership has skyrocketed as locals take advantage of the first class amenities.

“The Centre has enjoyed enormous popularity since it first opened in 2004, from both the Highfields and surrounding communities,” Mr Fraser said.

“But the community’s vision of expanding into a multi-purpose sports facility has well and truly paid off because today business is booming.

“The Centre now provides access to basketball, netball, volleyball, soccer, hockey, a variety of group fitness activities and junior sports and what this offers the community is a greater choice which in turn can lead to more active, healthier lifestyles.

“Since the addition of the new gymnasium and group fitness room, nearly 300 new members have joined up and fitness classes are reaching capacity.

“The new gym space allowed the old space to be converted into a crèche and vacation care facility, allowing mums and dads a more convenient opportunity to get out and get active.

“It also provides children with the opportunity to participate in physical activity in their school holidays rather than sitting in front of the computer or television.”

Mr Fraser said one of the key priorities of the Beattie Government was to ensure every Queenslander has an opportunity to participate in sport and active recreation.

“Centres like this play an integral role in encouraging more people to get active, which is especially important as we continue to tackle the growing problem of obesity.

“That’s why the Queensland Government, through the Department of Local Government, Planning and Sport, has contributed over $915,000 towards construction.

“We also contributed more than $185,000 to the second stage of the Highfields Outdoor Sports Fields and will provide a further $135,000 for stage three.

“We are pleased to have worked in partnership with the Crows Nest Shire Council to deliver this outstanding facility to the community and look forward to working with them to further enhance the Highfields recreation precinct.”

Media Contact: Chris Taylor 0419 710 874