$3 million park upgrade for Northern Beaches

Construction on the much anticipated upgrades and additions to Peggy Banfield Park in Townsville’s northern beaches has been completed, just in time for the 2017 sporting season.

The Palaszczuk Government contributed $1.5 million towards the project through the Get Playing Plus program with a further $1.5 million from Townsville City Council.

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke encouraged locals to come along and enjoy the revamped park.

“The upgrades will be great for locals particularly the two rugby league clubs that call Peggy Banfield Park home—Norths Rugby League and North Thuringowa Rugby League,” Mrs O’Rourke said.

“This project has involved the upgrade of two full sized rugby league fields to meet Queensland Rugby League standards for club competition, as well as four new grassed netball courts.

“The new park also includes two new dog off-leash areas, play spaces for kids and teenagers, two double table shelters, an electric BBQ, internal path and gravelled road network, and new vehicle access via Lionel Turner Drive.

“Peggy Banfield Park has something for everyone and I look forward to spending time there.”

Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said the $3 million project had come in on budget and on time in order to ensure home games could go ahead for clubs.

“The masterplan for this redevelopment included input from local residents and clubs and I’m delighted to see Stage 1 now complete and open for competition and training,” Cr Hill said.

“The partnership with the State Government has led to a great result for this growing community that will encourage participation in sport and recreational activities in the northern beaches.”

Mrs O’Rourke said further upgrades to the park had already been approved through Round 2 of the Get Playing Plus program, with construction starting in May.

“A further $1.5 million for Stage 2 has already been allocated for additions including permanent shade structures, trees and gardens, a multipurpose oval, more playing fields, footpaths, an inclusive playground and an amenities block,” she said.

A community celebration to mark the official opening of Stage 1 will be held at the park on April 22 from 9.30am-12.30pm including children’s amusements, a plaque unveiling and cake cutting.

Get Playing Plus provides grants of between $300,000 and $1.5 million to support new projects and major upgrades to existing facilities that support participation in sport and recreation activities.

For more information on the Get Playing Plus program visit: www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/getinthegame/