Community Liveability, Sport and Recreation
Bundaberg Regional Council’s 2025-2026 Budget will make a splash with recreation and wellbeing opportunities and a boost for some community grants categories.
Community Liveability, Sport and Recreation portfolio spokesperson Cr Carmen McEneany said, in handing down this year’s budget, Council had reaffirmed its commitment to creating a liveable, vibrant and connected community.
“Our grants program recognises the many varied ways groups and individuals contribute to making the Bundaberg Region the wonderful place it is,” Cr McEneany said.
“In the next financial year we will make $80,000 available for community grants up to a total of $5,000 per application for events, activities or proposals from not-for-profit and community groups.
“These funds will be available in rounds throughout the year under an updated Community Grants Policy which will relax conditions around auspice organisations and, as a result, increase the range of organisations which would be eligible to apply.
“We’ve also made changes to increase the total grant amount available to applicants of our Young People in Sport program from $200 to $400 per athlete and we’ve lifted the cap on micro grants from $1,000 to a maximum of $2,000 per eligible application.
“In total for these three grant programs residents can apply for a share in $113,000 worth of funding that we’ve earmarked to support our community.”
In sport and recreation Cr McEneany said the big ticket item would be the official opening of the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre.
“The opening of the new aquatic centre in the first half of the financial year will be a huge boost for community wellbeing,” Cr McEneany said.
“It’s a facility which will provide recreational and fitness opportunities for the entire community.
“From learn to swim, allied health and rehabilitation to competition and carnivals the Bundaberg Aquatic Centre will provide so many opportunities for sport, recreation and wellness.”
Investments are also being made in pools throughout the region in the next financial year.
In Childers this will include an upgrade to the accessible toilet and new floor coverings for the dressing sheds at Norville Park Swimming Pool.
And Cr McEneany said Gin Gin Swimming Pool would not miss out.
“The pool surface in Gin Gin will be repainted with non-slip materials to correct some wear and tear that has developed over time,” she said.
“The project will ensure the popular facility remains an inviting destination for swimmers, families and groups.”
Find out more about the 2025-26 Budget here: Budget | Bundaberg Regional Council
