Indoor sporting facility feasibility study gets the nod

Gympie Regional Council has supported calls from the community by approving a feasibility study for a large indoor sporting facility in the Gympie region.

The report, which was supported unanimously by Councillors during the first Ordinary Meeting of the year on Wednesday 22 January 2020, was presented with 248 responses from the community; 204 of those in favour of the proposed indoor centre.   

Council commenced work on the feasibility study following a councillor notified motion and requests from sporting and community groups who have outgrown their current facilities. Also taken into consideration is the growth of the sporting industry and importance of physical wellbeing, and the positive impact on social inclusivity and mental health facilities such as these deliver. 

The region is also continuing to become an attractive option for large sporting events, however many of them are currently unable to be hosted.

The draft feasibility study outcomes and concept plan was presented to the general community for feedback from 27 November 2019 until 20 December 2019, with many respondents providing suggestions and ideas for the concept plan to be worked into the next stage, which will include planning and design. 

In addition to an online survey on Council’s website, sport and recreation organisations involved in the consultation were invited to a presentation on the draft feasibility outcomes and concept plan to ensure the needs of these groups were highlighted.

Council endorsed the recommendation that the final Multipurpose Indoor Sports Centre Feasibility Study be accepted as the basis for future concept design. The next steps will include consideration of suitable sites and looking at future funding opportunities for the project. 

The facility would include the equivalent of three basketball courts and associated amenities, a café, and be able to host a range of sports including futsal, basketball, volleyball and netball as well as exhibitions and special events.

It is anticipated a further report will be brought back to Council before the end of the calendar year. 

Mayor of Gympie Regional Council, Mick Curran said “The fact the report was endorsed by all Councillors reflects the need for the Council to deliver this facility in the future. 

“It would not only service our sporting associations and allow them to grow, but a facility of this natural will attract a range of other uses as well. All of community benefit from these events as they draw visitors from across Australia, highlighting our region and delivering economic benefit for our local economy”.