Council is gearing up to unleash a wave of sporting opportunities in the Bundaberg Region through its 2023-24 budget.
With a commitment to fostering a strong and vibrant sporting community, residents will continue to be provided with top-tier events, the construction of new facilities and comprehensive support programs in the new financial year.
Sports and Recreation portfolio spokesperson Cr Vince Habermann said investing in sports and promoting an active lifestyle had always been a priority for Council.
“We are thrilled to announce that the upcoming budget will reinforce our dedication to sports through the continuation of our current sponsored events that will benefit the entire community,” he said.
Among these sponsored events is the highly popular Bulls Master's Cricket and Queensland Touch Football Bundy Cup and the 2023 Queensland Schools Championships Regatta, which draw in enthusiastic participants and spectators from near and far.
“These events not only showcase the region's sporting talent but also contribute to the local economy through increased tourism and visitor spending,” Cr Habermann said.
Bundaberg Regional Council has also secured the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs for another year, bringing the exciting NRL game to Bundaberg in 2024.
“We are delighted to partner with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, which demonstrates our
ability to attract high-profile sporting events to our region,” Cr Habermann said.
“Just like in previous years this NRL game will provide an incredible experience for sports enthusiasts and create significant economic benefits for local businesses.”
Recognising the importance of financial assistance, Council has established several programs to support local sporting organisations that will continue to be rolled out in the new financial year.
These include the Young People in Sport Program, the Sport Championship Funding Program, the Partnerships and Sponsorship Program and Be Active Be Alive.
“Through these initiatives, Council aims to empower grassroots sports clubs and enable them to thrive, fostering talent and nurturing a sense of community pride,” Cr Habermann said.
“Be Active Be Alive focuses on providing fitness opportunities for everyone in the community, with more than 300 free classes delivered every year.”
Cr Habermann said sport, health and fitness will be a focus into the future for Council, with the construction of the state-of-the-art Bundaberg Aquatic Centre progressing to schedule.
The facility will feature a FINA standard, covered, 50-metre, heated competition pool, providing a top-notch venue for regional and state-level events.
“The Bundaberg Aquatic Centre will be a game-changer for our region,” he said.
“It will not only attract elite swimmers to the region but also cater to the broader community by offering a range of fitness, teaching and therapy programs in additional indoor heated pools and multi-purpose rooms.
“This comprehensive facility will become a hub for health, wellbeing and sporting excellence.”
Cr Habermann said the 2023-24 budget highlighted how the Council continued to support local sporting activities while fostering a sense of community.
“We are confident that these initiatives will create a lasting impact on our community, enabling residents of all ages to participate in sports, celebrate local talent, and enjoy a range of health and fitness services,” he said.
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