Tracey’s Take
DIVISION 8 | BIRKDALE SOUTH | ALEXANDRA HILLS NORTH | ORMISTON | WELLINGTON POINT
ACROSS Division 8, there is always something happening – and I am pleased to share an uplifting story that is coming to fruition at Birkdale’s Judy Holt Reserve.
Many will know that the Redlands Rugby Union Club site has been undergoing major remediation works.
The Muddies are home to more than 500 members and make an enormous contribution to our city – and they are about to become even bigger.
After two challenging years, the remediation works are nearing completion. The club is excited about its new modular two-storey clubhouse, featuring modern change facilities for men and, importantly, women, an open clubhouse, large kitchen, balcony bar and generous storage.
The upgraded site will also feature three international- sized rugby fields, plus a smaller junior training field – helping establish Redlands as a top-tier destination for Queensland, Australian and international rugby.
We should not underestimate the pressure Muddies has faced over the past two football seasons.
Its committed executive team has navigated significant challenges, while the works have also created flow-on impacts for Muddies Cricket, Birkdale Sporting Club, Redlands Darts and the wonderful Redlands Dog Obedience Club, all of which share the upper section of Judy Holt Reserve.
These clubs have worked together remarkably well, reshuffling long-established programs and affecting hundreds of members to support Muddies Rugby.
The impact has been palpable, and I offer my heartfelt thanks to every club, particularly Muddies Cricket, which generously shared its immaculate grounds with the rugby community.
Keeping 450 juniors training throughout the week, while welcoming more than 1000 visitors to the reserve each week has been a huge exercise in leadership and community spirit.
Every one of these clubs is volunteer-run, and their efforts deserve recognition.
Seeing this new chapter begin for Redlands Rugby Union is something our city can be proud of.
The Muddies’ culture is outstanding, and it is a wonderful club for families looking to get involved.
For those keen to pick up a bat and ball, Muddies Cricket is just up the hill. And there is more good news.
Alongside the Muddies’ upgrade, the long-awaited Birkdale Sporting Club playground renewal is also on its way.
The old swings, enjoyed by generations of local families, will be replaced with new equipment, along with climbing features for all ages, refreshed gardens, seating, colour and improved surrounds.
Judy Holt Reserve is a hidden gem that offers so much to the community, and I could not be prouder to see this uplift taking shape
