LNP GOVERNMENT TO FUND MAJOR UPGRADE TO MARYBOROUGH HOCKEY

A Dutton LNP Government would provide a $2 million investment to the Maryborough and District Hockey Association to upgrade its facilities.

Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien, has secured the funding commitment to ensure Maryborough and District Hockey Association can meet the growing demand and provide modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that supports the needs of local players, families, and the wider community.

“Maryborough and District Hockey started back in 1932 and has grown to nearly 400 members who play social and competitive hockey throughout the year,” Mr O’Brien said.

“Built in 1985, parts of the stadium have reached the end of their life and need to be upgraded, including the roof, kitchen, bar, and changerooms, and anyone who has been inside on a hot day knows that air conditioning is needed for player and spectator comfort.

“I’ve had strong feedback from the Maryborough community about the need for improvements to cater for the growing number of people of all ages who want to play hockey and attract state, national and international squads to Maryborough to train and compete, as well as to make the facility a multi-use space for the wider community,” Mr O’Brien said.

The indoor stadium is also used by pickleball players, dance teams, soccer squads, and other community groups on a regular basis.

The project involves: 

• Building a new grandstand and facilities for players and officials.
• Upgrades to the outdoor artificial playing surface.
• Clubhouse improvements, including upgrades to the kitchen and bar areas and the men’s and women’s amenities.
• Upgrades to the indoor stadium, including roof repairs, and air conditioning.

This commitment builds on Mr O’Brien’s $426,300 announcement in 2019 to upgrade the club’s facilities.

Maryborough and District Hockey Association President Tony Quaill said “Llew has always been a strong supporter of the hockey association, he made it possible for us to install new

flooring, a new scoreboard, LED lighting, and improved spectator seating in 2019 for our indoor hockey stadium, and this current commitment will enable us to continue to host state championships and training camps, international teams in the lead up to the Olympic games in 2032, and provide more support for the local community groups who use our facility,”

This commitment is part of the LNP’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/ourplan.