The Rockhampton Region has once again stepped up to the plate with more than 150 players and families hitting town for the Queensland U18 Men's State Softball Championships over the weekend.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said Rockhampton had proved itself as an ideal destination for sporting carnivals, and thanked Rockhampton Softball and Softball Queensland for bringing the U18 Men's State Championships to the region.
"We are working hard to attract and expand the sporting events held in our region in various ways and we were pleased to support Softball Queensland with $4,500 from the Community Assistance Program," Mayor Williams said.
"With competitors travelling from around the state for this event, we know our local hospitality, retail and accommodation businesses would have received a welcome boost.
"And with the event held in school holidays we hope travelling families will extend their stay to explore our region after the Championships."
Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said Rockhampton Softball was a leader with a strong junior development program and solid player numbers.
"The Rockhampton U18 Men's team came into the weekend as defending champions and we are very proud of their commitment and efforts," Cr Rutherford said.
"The funding Council provides through the Community Assistance Program delivers returns far beyond the monetary value – not only do we support hard-working local non-profit organisations, but it also assists to bring people to our region.
"The value of sport cannot be understated – healthy competition, camaraderie, improved physical and mental wellbeing and teamwork are just a few of the benefits that have been on display this weekend, and every weekend at sporting fields throughout our region."
Softball Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mr Ross Symonds said the Council funding helped immensely, covering First Aid services, venue hire, equipment, line marking and providing livestreaming for the event.
"Rockhampton Softball Association are always willing to get involved and host state championships and their facilities and volunteers are fantastic," Mr Symonds said.
"Softball is a sport for all – whether you are looking for fierce competition or wanting a social environment to make new friends, softball has it all.
"Softball in Queensland is on the rise with the most recent figures showing Queensland has taken the number 1 spot in the nation with regards to participation numbers.
"Locally, Rockhampton Softball continues to have in excess of 350 members."
SQI Pathways Coordinator Fabian Barlow said Rockhampton Softball U18s Men's team came into the weekend as defending champions.
"They have a good mix of pitching, hitting and athleticism and they have several players who have represented Queensland at U16 National Championships," Mr Barlow said.
Following the Championships an Under 18 Queensland Team will be selected to play in the National Championships in Blacktown, New South Wales from Tuesday to Sunday, 20 to 25 January 2026.
