Redland City Council has kicked off planning for a major upgrade of the facilities at Charlie Buckler Memorial Sportsground in Redlands Bay with an injection of approximately $175,000 to help fund a detailed design process.
Mayor Karen Williams said it was part of a $981,100 package approved by Council last month to help sport and recreation clubs across Redlands Coast recover from the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We know our local sports clubs have done it tough through COVID, so we are investing in infrastructure projects to help our local sports stars get back on the field playing the game they love,” Cr Williams said.
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“Sports and recreational clubs are fundamental to our community’s wellbeing, providing social cohesion and enabling people to stay fit, healthy and engaged.
“But as well as play, COVID-19 has disrupted fundraising opportunities that would ordinarily contribute to these clubs’ essential upkeep and planning for the future.”
Division 6 Councillor Julie Talty said the Charlie Buckler design process would lay the foundation for a new clubhouse, car parking expansion, relocation and upgrade of the cricket net and storage sheds, reconfiguration of the dog off-leash area and relocation of the basketball half court and dirt BMX track.
“It will be great news for the Southern Bay Cyclones Rugby Union Club, Redland Sharks Cricket Club and Redlands Cricket Club; as primary users of the sports field,” she said.
“With the new clubhouse design to include new change rooms suitable for female use, it will help increase female participation.
“The design process is expected to be completed before the end of June 2021, with the contract already in the final stages of being awarded to the preferred tenderer.”
Mayor Williams said Council officers had also finalised business cases with a view to construction during the 2021/2022 financial year subject to Council budget.
“We know that the Southern Bay Cyclones Rugby Union Club has secured a Federal Government grant and are looking at other funding opportunities to deliver a fit for purpose facility.”
Southern Bay Cyclones Rugby Union Club Secretary Mr James Eaton thanked Council for working closely with the club and said they looked forward to being able to host future rugby carnivals.
“The design process will inform all future works and help facilitate best use of funds from all sources,” he said.
Redlands Cricket Club President Wayne Todman said it was pleasing to see plans going ahead.
“It’s a great motivation to work collaboratively with all parties as we move into the New Year,” he said.
The sentiment was echoed by Redland Sharks Cricket Club Vice President Scott Gillard.
“This is a great opportunity for sport of cricket on Redlands Coast and we’re excited to be a part of the process,” Mr Gillard said.
