$5 million to help Rockhampton Netball shoot for a new home

• A Miles Government commitment of $5 million will help Rockhampton Regional Council develop a new home for netball in the city.
• The commitment will assist with detailed designs, costings and gaining relevant approval for the proposed new Rockhampton Sporting Precinct.
• Current netball facilities at Jardine Park are ageing and insufficient for increasing numbers of participants.

A $5 million commitment from the Miles Labor Government will help the Rockhampton Regional Council develop detailed designs, costings and gaining relevant approvals for a new home for netball in the city.

Rockhampton Netball Association (RNA) is one of the largest participation sports associations in Rockhampton, with approximately 2,800 registered members.

RNA currently operates out of Jardine Park, but reports the facility is ageing and does not meet growing participation numbers.

It’s prompted the association to consider relocation to a new home within the proposed Rockhampton Sporting Precinct.

Stage 1 of the new facility proposes to include 16 outdoor hard courts, new club house and changeroom facilities along with a community playspace.

The Miles Government’s commitment will assist the council to undertake detailed design, costings and approvals.

The funds will be provided to Rockhampton Regional Council to manage.

Quotes attributable to Premier Steven Miles:

“Local sporting clubs are at the heart of our communities.

“Participation in sport keeps Queenslanders fit and healthy, and keeps us connected socially.

“Our $5 million commitment will help Rockhampton Regional Council make the local Netball Association’s dream for bigger and better facilities a reality and leave a legacy for generations of netballers to come.

“With its population set to surge to 93,000 by 2041, there is no doubt a sports precinct will make Rockhampton a happier, healthier and more connected city. That’s something I’m proud to get behind.” 

Quotes attributable to Sport Minister Michael Healy:

“Netball is one of the biggest participation sports right across Queensland, particularly for women and girls, and we know that’s true right here in Rocky and across the region.

“Jardine Park has served the Rockhampton Netball community well over the years, but it is moving beyond its capacity, so it’s time to find a new home so the sport can continue to thrive.

“Today’s commitment will help Rockhampton Netball work towards achieving their goal.

“It’s important we see more women and girls getting involved in organised sport and recreation, and a new home for netball in Rockhampton will help make that a reality.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke:

“Netball is an integral part of Rockhampton’s sporting landscape,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“We have a proud tradition of producing wonderful athletes, and helping to provide the best possible facilities for future generations will keep that tradition going.

“Jardine Park has been important for growing netball here, but it is time to look for a more suitable place to truly expand.

“The proposed new facility would be a fantastic addition for netball in Rockhampton as well as the wider community.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga:

“Encouraging greater female participation in sport and recreational activities is not only beneficial to the wellbeing of those who participate but also to the community as a whole,” Ms Lauga said.

“I loved playing netball and I love seeing the kids and adults in our region having fun on the court.

“The new Rockhampton Sporting Precinct will take netball to a new level and will be a wonderful asset for Central Queensland.”

Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams:

“A new home for Rockhampton Netball is a key component of the Rockhampton Sports Precinct and the first stage of a much broader vision for new, flood-free sports facilities in our region,” Cr Williams said.

“We know that Netball needs additional courts and contemporary facilities to help cater for its current and projected growth.

“That’s going to help set our region up for the future and ensure that can attract those important regional and state competitions.

“This is the first step in that process and a big win for the local association, clubs and players.”

Quotes attributable to President of Rockhampton Netball, Simone Hitchcock:

“Rockhampton Netball is seeing real growth with new players and teams signing up each season,” Ms Hitchcock said.

“This new facility is a game-changer and will mean more space, more courts and a real step forward for Rocky netball.

“I can’t thank the Queensland Government enough for their support and we’re looking forward to working with Council to help shape these new facilities.”

ENDS