• Two projects in South Ripley and Blackstone have been awarded more than $330,000 thanks to the Miles Government’s Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund.

More accessible, inclusive and efficient local sports facilities are on the way thanks to the Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund (MIIFF).

New athletics facilities at South Ripley and a lighting upgrade at Blackstone United Football Club are locals projects set to receive a share of funding through the $45 million program.

The $16.35 million Round 1 of the Minor Infrastructure Program (MIP) saw overwhelming demand and supported 91 projects.

Round 2 of MIP was brought forward as a result of this demand and combined with increased funding from the Inclusive Facilities Fund to target shovel-ready projects.

This increase includes $20 million as part of a $37 million Queensland Government investment in women and girls’ sport, announced in August 2023.

Quotes attributable to Lance McCallum, Member for Bundamba:

“With the Olympics on the horizon, the Miles Government knows how important it is to grow our local talent.

“I’m proud to announce that our local Providence Athletics Club has secured a massive $250,000 investment for a brand-new athletics facility to be developed at South Ripley.

“Located at our state-ot-the-art Ripley Valley State Secondary College, these fantastic facilities will make Bundamba the sporting envy of Ipswich.

“In addition, Blackstone United Football Club has been granted over $85,000 to upgrade their lighting, making their fields more accessible.

“Nothing makes me happier than seeing our local communities thrive and I can’t wait to watch our local athletes flourish in their improved surroundings.”

Quotes attributable to Sport Minister Michael Healy:

“The Miles Labor Government’s top priority is the health and wellbeing of all Queenslanders,” Minister Healy said.

“I’m thrilled that 171 projects state-wide will receive funding to improve facilities and get more Queenslanders active.

“This funding helps to make physical activity more accessible and includes facilities like female changerooms.

“The Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund and our $45 million program will make a difference to communities right across the state.

“The LNP’s David Crisafulli won’t reveal his plans for sport, or the cuts he plans to make, and is a risk to all these projects.”

 Quotes attributable to Shaun Crowley, Providence Athletics Inc:

“This is great news.

We have worked closely with Ripley Valley State Secondary College, to create this fantastic new club to enable our local community to get involved in track and field events.

“We can’t wait to get started on building our dream facilities at the school.”

Quotes attributable to Jeremy Bruce, Blackstone United Football Club:

“This is a game-changer for our club.

“Good field lighting means we can now illuminate our field for night games and ensure the safety of our players during evening training sessions.

“We pride ourselves on our commitment to fostering inclusive and accessible sporting environments. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Queensland Government for their belief in our vision and their invaluable support in making it a reality.

“We look forward to welcoming the community to our fantastic club under state-of-the-art new lights.”