Spence: $1 million in funding for storm-damaged sport and recreation clubs

Sport Minister Judy Spence today announced a $1 million funding package to sport and recreation clubs to assist with the clean up and repairs from the devastating storm that hit south east Queensland last Sunday.

Ms Spence said from today sport and recreation clubs with damage to playing fields, clubhouses or other property, incurred as a result of last Sunday’s storm were eligible to apply for assistance grants of up to $5,000 to replace damaged equipment and up to $20,000 to repair infrastructure.

“It is imperative we support our local sport and recreation clubs to get their facilities and services operational as quickly as possible.

“There are many sporting clubs, particularly in the north-western suburbs of Brisbane, which have significant damage, impacting on their ability to continue regular sport and activities for their community.

“Sunday night was very traumatic for many families, particularly those with young children, and it is particularly important for the kids that their organised weekend sporting activities are not interrupted.

Ms Spence said although only preliminary reports of the damage have been received, some of the more severe examples included flooded club houses, unplayable golf courses and fallen light poles.

“The Gap Pastime Soccer Club received water damage to the ceiling and the clubhouse is flooded, ruining carpets and other items.

"The Keperra Golf Club is unplayable and closed after receiving extensive damage to both the clubhouse and fairways. The administration offices were flooded after the ceiling collapsed and the clean up of debris from fairways is expected to take some weeks.

“The Pinehills Soccer Club's change rooms have been demolished, and out at Peterson Road reserve in Burpengary, the playing field light poles have been knocked over on the touch football field.

“These are just a few examples that we know of. There are, no doubt, many more clubs with a lot of work to do to get ready for their players and members.

“These grants will help kick start some of the necessary repairs and help replace some equipment,” Ms Spence said.

Officers from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Recreation will be on the ground to assist clubs with their applications.

The funding guidelines will be available at www.sportrec.qld.gov.au and potential applicants can contact the Department by telephone on 1300 656 191.

Media contact: 3239 6218