Two local junior sports clubs have received big boosts as they build back better following South-East Queensland’s recent floods.
The Gailes Golf Club Goodna Flood Recovery Golf Day raised $15,000 to support the Goodna Netball Association and Western Spirit Football Club.
Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum said the event was a testament to the community’s ongoing strength, resilience and determination.
“These two clubs were hit really hard – Goodna Netball lost everything and Western Spirit sustained a lot of damage to fields, change rooms and the canteen,” Mr McCallum said.
“To make matters worse, both clubs were targeted by vandals in the days following the floods.
“But like we always do, our local community responded the only way we know how, by digging deep and helping those in need.”
Gailes Golf Club General Manager Frank McCarthy said the fundraiser was well supported by players and sponsors alike.
“When the water receded and the recovery started a few of the members got together and spoke about what we could do for the Goodna community,” Mr McCarthy said.
“We’re just really pleased we could play our part in helping the junior clubs and their players get back into the sports they love.”
Goodna Netball Association President Tima Tapuaiga said the donation would support the club’s rebuilding efforts.
“Unfortunately we’ve got to start again, literally from the ground up, so this will definitely help the process as we move forward,” Ms Tapuaiga said.
“We’re looking at a number of options to improve our facilities, and the generosity of Gailes Golf Club is now a big part of that.”
Western Spirit Vice President Adrian Varkevisser said the money would help the club buy new playing kits for about 200 juniors.
“It’s a great boost for us and completely unexpected. We had no idea we’d get anything at all in terms of a donation, and $7,500 is huge,” Mr Varkevisser said.
“I can’t thank the golf club enough. Most of the people involved I’ll probably never meet, but their support has made a very real difference.”
