Slacks Creek Rugby League Club has just had its first success of the 2019 football season and the trophy is one to treasure: a brand-new clubhouse.
Minister for Sport Mick de Brenni joined players and supporters yesterday to announce a $300,000 boost for the project, delivered through the Queensland Footy Facilities Fund.
"We know Lions players and supporters have been through some tough times over recent years culminating in the clubhouse recently being condemned. However, this announcement set's them up for many seasons of success," said Mr de Brenni.
"In partnership with the QRL, NRL and Logan City Council I'm pleased to announce that we will build modern facilities, including two new changerooms, unisex amenities that cater for people with a disability, a new kitchen, first-aid room, referee's room and office space," said the Springwood MP.
"Queenslanders are proud and passionate about their footy, and it all starts at the grassroots level.
"It's here that we mould the footy stars of the future – true Queensland champions like Wally Lewis, Darren Lockyer, Tallisha Harden and Ali Brigginshaw".
The $1.275 million Football Facilities Fund is a joint initiative of the Palaszczuk Labor Government, the National Rugby League (NRL) and the Queensland Rugby League (QRL).
Local clubs can apply for dollar-for-dollar contributions up to $300,000 to improve facilities and upgrade fields to provide safer playing surfaces.
Selection of this project was made possible by the significant $1.1 million contribution through Division 10 Councillor Darren Power and the Logan City Council
"A quality clubhouse is just as valuable as having a quality field to play on," Mr Power said.
"Council didn't hesitate to invest in this facility because we know how much it means to the club.
"I can't wait to come back and watch our up and coming local legends run out on to the paddock from their new clubhouse."
QRL Managing Director Rob Moore said replacing the clubhouse was a great example of what the fund can achieve.
"We are proud to work with the NRL and State Government to improve the quality of community rugby league facilities across Queensland.
"Slacks Creek Rugby League Club has been part of the local community for over 50 years and we are helping ensure it'll be kicking goals for many years to come."
Club President Nathan Alexander said the players were overwhelmed by the support received.
"We really didn't know what to do when the clubhouse was slated demolition last year.
"It was in a real state of decay but we simply didn't have the funds to pull off a major refurbishment.
"What everyone has done for our club is incredibly humbling and we can't wait to welcome them all back when we christen the new place."
The Football Facilities Fund is just one of the many Palaszczuk Government initiatives encouraging young people to be more active, more often.
Queensland's first Sport and Active Recreation Strategy was launched last year to encourage all Queenslanders, regardless of age, ability or background, to participate in sport and active recreation.
Mr de Brenni said the strategy acknowledges the vital role of grassroots sporting clubs.
"They connect the community and promote healthy lifestyles," he said.
"What I want to see is more Queenslanders getting in and having a go."
