Noosa Tigers drainage upgrade to help the economy roar

Hundreds of Noosa footballers, hospitality and tourism operators will benefit from a $192,195 Australian Government grant to upgrade drainage at the Noosa Tigers Australian Football Club, enabling the facility to host large-scale events.

Federal Member for Wide Bay and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Llew O’Brien officially opened the upgrades today, which were funded through the Liberal and Nationals Government’s Community Development Grants Programme and a $12,000 contribution from Noosa Council.

Mr O’Brien said wet weather had previously made the Tigers grounds unplayable, which hampered the club’s ability to provide training and host matches.

“The new drainage ensures the grounds can be used at all times, so their 400 players can train no matter the weather, and the club can guarantee availability for matches and expand into hosting large events like state titles,” Mr O’Brien said.

“The club supports 250 juniors, 60 seniors and about 100 Auskick players who will all directly benefit from this project, and local hospitality and tourism businesses can also expect a boost with players and their families travelling to Noosa to participate in matches.

“Sporting tourism is a valuable market for the Noosa region, and provides ongoing trade for the local cafes, restaurants and hotels outside peak holiday times, helping bolster their recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Works included installing a piped subsoil drainage system for the main playing area at the oval, an upgraded perimeter drainage swale, stormwater field pits, and solar panels to the amenities building.

The project created five jobs throughout construction, and funding was delivered by the Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities.

“The Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to supporting local communities bounce back from COVID-19, and local infrastructure projects like this are critical if we want to boost economic growth and improve local amenities and facilities,” Mr O’Brien said.