World-Class Sport Precinct Backed For Mackay

Mackay’s Harrup Park redevelopment could take another step towards becoming a major multi-sport hub, with the state government committing $23.5 million towards the project’s second stage and calling on the Federal Government to match its investment.  

‍

The proposed redevelopment would deliver a new indoor sporting venue featuring courts for netball, basketball, volleyball and badminton, alongside indoor cricket nets and AFL training facilities. The project would also include Sporting Wheelies and Paralympian training facilities, all-abilities facilities, a gym, dormitory accommodation, community sports meeting rooms and administration offices for AFL, cricket and other community sports.

‍

Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the facility would provide important infrastructure for the region.

“Mackay is a great sporting community, and it deserves to have great community sports facilities which is why we committed to help deliver Stage 2 of the Harrup Park redevelopment before the last State Election,” Minister Mander said.

‍

“We are delivering $23.5 million through the incredibly successful Games On! program to make this happen for the people of Mackay and the region and are calling on the Federal Government to match the funding.”

‍

The proposed development would build on Harrup Park’s existing Great Barrier Reef Arena, with the State Government describing the combined facilities as a major sporting and community hub.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the next stage could provide opportunities for both community participants and elite athletes.

‍

“We already have the stadium for our community members to watch the best, and with this next stage of the Harrup Park community, they can aspire to be the best,” Mr Dalton said.

“We know the importance of sport to the people of Mackay, and this facility will not only encourage more community members to be active, but it will also provide better elite-level infrastructure to guide our future champions and I hope the Federal Government will support our community."

‍

Harrup Park General Manager Adrian Young said Stage 2 was intended to support athletes throughout their sporting journeys, from grassroots participation through to high-performance competition.

“This is infrastructure that will benefit our young athletes and sporting clubs for generations, while also giving Mackay the facilities to attract major training camps, tournaments and opportunities associated with Brisbane 2032 and beyond,” Mr Young said.

‍

“The State Government’s $23.5 million commitment has given us a strong foundation, and securing the remaining investment will allow us to deliver the full vision for our region.”

‍

The project remains dependent on securing the additional funding, after Harrup Park was unsuccessful in its application to the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.

‍

“While we were disappointed to be unsuccessful through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, we remain hopeful that we can work constructively with the Federal Government to secure funding for this vital regional project.”

‍