COMMITMENT TO UPGRADE GYMPIE HOCKEY
The Gympie region has a long and successful connection with hockey, and if elected, a Dutton Coalition Government will support the long term development of hockey in Wide Bay with a $3 million commitment to upgrade the Gympie and District Hockey Association’s facilities.
Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien has secured the funding commitment that will help meet growing demand and provide modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that support the needs of local players, families, and the wider community.
“The Gympie and District Hockey Association started back in the 1930’s and boasts a proud history of producing top quality representative players, teams, coaches, and officials,” Mr O’Brien said.
“With more than 330 members including 200 junior players, the club is a busy community hub. Hockey games are played all year round and the facilities are also used by local primary schools, soccer and futsal players, dance schools, and for community events.
“That’s why I’ve been working with the Gympie and District Hockey Association on their plans to upgrade their fields and clubhouse amenities so they can continue the great work they do nurturing championship hockey players and providing a place where the local community can get involved in active and healthy activities.”
The funding commitment will allow the club to construct a second synthetic turf field, upgrade the existing hybrid field, build new fencing and dug outs, and install new lighting to support evening training and competition activities.
The clubhouse will also receive an upgrade with new amenities, improvements to the kitchen and bar areas, and works to the exterior to improve accessibility and create a safer environment for the wider community.
Ben Fitzpatrick from Gympie and District Hockey Association said, “we are excited about the project, it’s going to boost Gympie as a regional training and competition hub, help us with talent development, and provide extra participation opportunities for our juniors, seniors, and representative teams.”
“It is also going to create a multi-purpose facility that is suitable for a broad range of private, corporate, and community events, and be a big asset for the Gympie region.”
The commitment is part of the Coalition’s plan to invest in grass roots sporting and recreational facilities, strengthen local communities and get Australia back on track. To read more about our plan, visit www.lnp.au/ontrack.
