Broncos give back to Queenslanders with $27m community sports hub

The Brisbane Broncos continue to support the local community through the power of sport with the official opening of their $27 million Training, Administration and Community Facility at the former Ithaca TAFE site in Red Hill.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said a commercial arrangement between the Palaszczuk Government and the Broncos enabled development of the new Clive Berghofer Centre on state-owned land.

“As part of this lease, the Broncos are giving back to the Queensland community that supports them with a dedicated community room and state-of-the-art lecture theatre as well as public access to the training field when not in use by the Broncos” he said.

“As a proud and keen supporter of the Broncos, I am delighted that our Queensland community will have access to some of these great new facilities, and proud that the Palaszczuk Government has helped make these facilities a reality.

“The project supported 84 full-time equivalent jobs during the construction phase and 34 staff are currently engaged working on the Bronco’s fantastic community programs, so not only is this facility a win for the community, it’s a win for local jobs too.

“There will also be an exciting expanded schedule of community programs and player appearances and promotions, giving Broncos fans even more opportunities to get involved with the club and meet their favourite footy star.”

The Training, Administration and Community Facility is opposite the existing Broncos Leagues Club and has a full-sized training field as well as a three-storey administration building featuring offices, sports medicine and training facilities for the rugby league club.

Member for Cooper and Minister for Innovation, Tourism Industry Development and the Commonwealth Games Kate Jones said the Broncos had been based in Red Hill since 1988 and were an important part of the community.

“Rugby league continues to grow in Brisbane and sport plays a larger role in people’s lives now than ever before,” she said.

“That’s why it’s important we throw our support behind the Broncos to make sure they have the support they need to be role models for young Queenslanders.

“This project goes beyond sport. A strong base will free up the Broncos to spend more time with locals and will help the club run programs to mentor emerging talent.

“The Broncos are also keen to leave an impression on Red Hill by doing some extensive work near the creek that runs alongside their new digs - they’ve built a new pedestrian and cycle path and a pocket park nearby.”

Brisbane Broncos CEO Paul White said: “The Clive Berghofer Centre will house the things that are most important to the club: Preparing to play our best rugby league for our supporters, operating our community programs that are improving lives across Queensland and Northern NSW, and providing the community with access to the Broncos.”

Minister Dick said the Broncos have moved into the new facility and will commence practice on the new playing field in preparation of the 2018 season.

“These great new facilities will not only help the Broncos to reach their sporting pinnacle, but also give Queenslanders a chance to participate and be part of their journey,” he said.

ENDS

Media contact: Anika Hume 0447 320 039