Women and girls using a Sunshine Coast sports precinct have gained new purpose-built amenities as part of a national push to remove barriers to participation.
The new building at the Caloundra Indoor Stadium precinct on North Street has reached practical completion following a $900,000 investment.
More than $880,000 was provided through the Australian Government’s Play Our Way program, with Sunshine Coast Council contributing a further $20,000.
The facility has eight cubicles and one accessible cubicle with an integrated shower, as well as a service room, storage room, adjoining pathways and concrete seating.
The upgrade particularly supports users of the precinct’s outdoor courts, including members of the Caloundra District Netball Association.
Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli said investment in sporting infrastructure needed to reflect the needs of women and girls.
“This facility is about much more than a building,” she said.
“It’s an important investment in community infrastructure and the future of women’s sport across the region.
“It tells women and girls that their needs matter and ensures that they can see a long-term future playing sport.”
The federal government’s $200m Play Our Way program funds facilities, equipment and participation initiatives intended to help women and girls access and remain involved in sport and physical activity.
Minister for Sport Anika Wells said local sports clubs had an important community role.
“Play Our Way is about breaking down the barriers that can stop women and girls from getting involved in sport, by investing in the facilities and opportunities they need to participate,” she said.
“Local sporting clubs are at the heart of their communities, and these upgrades will give Caloundra District Netball Association members a space where they can play, connect and continue to grow their netball skills.”
Caloundra District Netball Association has operated since 1984 and provides junior development, senior and representative competitions, with pathways into higher-level netball programs on the Sunshine Coast.
Councillor Terry Landsberg said the facilities would also serve players, volunteers, families and visitors.
“Caloundra District Netball Association has been creating opportunities for local players for more than 40 years and continues to play an important role in developing athletes from grassroots participation through to representative pathways,” he said.
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Cr Landsberg said the amenities would support people using the outdoor courts at different levels of sport.
“Importantly, these upgrades help create an environment where women and girls, and others using the outdoor courts, feel supported and encouraged to participate in sport at every level, whether they’re just starting out or pursuing higher representative honours.”
The Caloundra Indoor Stadium outdoor amenities upgrade reached practical completion on October 30.
