A new $1 million Bay Islands Sport and Resilience Hub was officially opened yesterday on Russell Island.
The facility was opened by Federal MP Andrew Laming, Redland City Mayor Karen Williams and Divisional Councillor Mark Edwards at an event attended by emergency services and community representatives.
Cr Williams said the Sport and Resilience Hub complemented the $2 million Bay Islands Sports Field that opened in October 2013.
You may also like these stories
“The aim of this project has been to create a multi-purpose facility that can be used on an ongoing basis for community activities as well as a hub for our bay islands disaster training and response,” she said.
“I’d like to thank the Australian Government for recognising the need for this facility and matching Council’s $500,000 contribution to allow it to happen more quickly.”
To celebrate the opening, Council hosted a fun day with displays, sporting competitions and a community sausage sizzle.
Mr Laming described the Sport and Resilience Hub as a place where all Southern Moreton Bay Islands residents could come together.
“This is a crucial piece of community infrastructure and it’s great to see it come to fruition in time for summer activities and the next storm and bushfire season,” he said.
“I’m excited to see this facility used to encourage social connectedness and expand employment programs on the islands.
“This is the kind of infrastructure that can offer a place for up-skilling programs and training to increase employability.
“Through team and club-based activities this hub will build confidence in young islanders to pursue the future and career they aspire to.”
Divisional Councillor Mark Edwards said there was enormous potential for the facility to be used for a wide range of purposes.
“This hub is an all-islands facility so I encourage everyone to come and see what’s available,” he said.
“Islanders now have not only a high-quality sports complex but also a resilience centre that doubles as a community facility,” he said.
