BAYSIDE residents are calling on the Federal Government to invest more into the region’s local sport and recreation infrastructure.
With the area’s population rapidly expanding, this funding is seen as essential to ensure better community access to high-quality facilities.
Additionally, it would enhance the Bayside’s role in contributing to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, further solidifying the region’s place in the broader sporting landscape.
Federal Member for Bowman Henry Pike said sporting infrastructure was critical to fostering healthy, active communities and ensuring that Redlanders could participate in the sports they loved.
“As the demand for high-quality sports and recreation facilities grows, we must invest in community assets to meet this need,” Mr Pike said.
“Investment in sports infrastructure is not just about maintaining existing facilities – it’s about future-proofing the Redlands for the next generation of athletes and community members.
“The Redlands has a strong sporting culture, and we can support these community movements by providing the infrastructure necessary to support growing participation.”
Among the projects identified, Council is seeking $5 million for upgrades at the William Taylor Memorial Sports Precinct in Thorneside, where field and clubhouse enhancements, including the relocation of netball courts, would benefit tennis, soccer, cricket and netball clubs.
Another $5 million is being requested for the Keith Surridge Sports Precinct in Alexandra Hills, where clubhouse and amenity upgrades would better support local AFL and netball clubs.
The proposal also includes more than $7.8 million for critical lighting upgrades across key sites in Capalaba, Victoria Point, Russell Island and Coochiemudlo Island.
Council is also seeking more than $11.8 million to upgrade skate parks at Cascade Gardens in Victoria Point and John Fredericks Park in Capalaba.
With pickleball emerging as one of the fastest-growing sports in Queensland, Council is requesting $1.5 million to construct a roof over existing netball courts at EGW Wood Sportsfield in Wellington Point, enabling multi-use functionality and year-round access for pickleball and netball players.
Mr Pike said a Dutton LNP Government would deliver $150,000 to support the Redlands Pickleball Club’s new partnership with All-Stars Netball to upgrade its courts at Wellington Point.
Other major commitments include $2.5 million towards the Stage 1 development of the Russell Island Bowls Club and $1.1 million in transforming the home of the Redland Tigers Cricket Club.
Greens candidate for Bowman Kristie Lockhart said sporting clubs and associations were an integral part of our community.
“The Greens have long advocated for free club sport for under 18s and more grants to support clubs and acquire new sporting fields,” she said.
Independent candidate for Bowman Shaun Holloway said that if elected, he would work closely with Council prioritising upgrades based on urgency and community need.
“Every project would be guided by a solid business plan and a clear building schedule,” he said.
“Since we’re dealing with taxpayer money, transparency is essential – each project would have a defined delivery date, and I’d ensure it’s met.
Meanwhile, Labor Candidate for Bonner Kara Cook said she had spent the past three months meeting with clubs and sporting groups across Brisbane’s eastern suburbs and seeing the great work done by volunteers.
“It’s clear to me that after nearly 20 years of LNP representation here, our local clubs and groups have very little to show for it,” she said.
“The Albanese Labor Government will always back clubs, and I look forward to working with all of Bonner’s local clubs and sporting groups if I’m elected on 3 May.”
Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta said:
“I grew up playing cricket, and the pitch is where I learned discipline, resilience, and teamwork, values
that have shaped who I am today.
“Every Australian, no matter their background, deserves access to quality facilities that support a healthy and active lifestyle.
“I’ve experienced, firsthand, how local clubs build community.
“I’ll always stand by our Bayside clubs, because investing in local sport means investing in a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.”
