What’s Happening?
Queensland has backed an indoor sports venue as part of Harrup Park’s redevelopment in Mackay. The state is asking the Federal Government to help fund the project, which remains uncertain without its support.
Why It Matters
The proposed venue would give community clubs more indoor space and support athletes pursuing higher levels of sport.
Sport Minister Tim Mander said the commitment followed a promise made before the last state election.
“Mackay is a great sporting community, and it deserves to have great community sports facilities which is why we committed to help deliver Stage 2 of the Harrup Park redevelopment before the last State Election,” Minister Mander said. “We are delivering $23.5 million through the incredibly successful Games On! program to make this happen for the people of Mackay and the region and are calling on the Federal Government to match the funding.”
Local Impact
Beyond the courts, the plans include indoor cricket nets, AFL training facilities, and spaces for Sporting Wheelies and Paralympian training. All-abilities facilities, a gym and dormitory accommodation would also feature.
The venue would provide community sports meeting rooms and administration offices for AFL, cricket and other community sports.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the existing arena had given locals a place to watch top-level sport.
“We already have the stadium for our community members to watch the best, and with this next stage of the Harrup Park community, they can aspire to be the best,” Mr Dalton said. “We know the importance of sport to the people of Mackay, and this facility will not only encourage more community members to be active, but it will also provide better elite-level infrastructure to guide our future champions and I hope the Federal Government will support our community.”
By The Numbers
- The Queensland Government has committed $23.5 million through its Games On! Grassroots Infrastructure Program.
- Harrup Park’s Stage 2 redevelopment is estimated to cost $47 million, with federal funding still uncommitted.
- The plans include indoor courts for four sports: netball, basketball, volleyball and badminton.
Zoom In
Harrup Park General Manager Adrian Young said the facility would support athletes from community participation through to elite performance. The plans also include training, education, allied health and high-performance facilities.
“This is infrastructure that will benefit our young athletes and sporting clubs for generations, while also giving Mackay the facilities to attract major training camps, tournaments and opportunities associated with Brisbane 2032 and beyond,” Mr Young said.
Zoom Out
The project is designed to complement the Great Barrier Reef Arena and create a larger sporting and community hub. Harrup Park was unsuccessful in seeking funding through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.
“While we were disappointed to be unsuccessful through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, we remain hopeful that we can work constructively with the Federal Government to secure funding for this vital regional project,” Mr Young said.
What To Look For Next?
Harrup Park remains hopeful of securing the funding needed to deliver the full project.
“The State Government’s $23.5 million commitment has given us a strong foundation, and securing the remaining investment will allow us to deliver the full vision for our region,” Mr Young said.
A matching federal commitment would bring the proposed courts and training facilities closer to delivery for Mackay’s clubs and athletes.
