Funds will be used to repaint and repair club’s existing changerooms
By Kirra Livingstone
The Sunshine Coast Council has awarded the Maleny Rangers Football Club a $20,000 grant to repaint the clubhouse and repair the existing changerooms.
However, the club has its sights set on building brand new changerooms and has already secured 80 per cent of the project cost from the state government.
Club president Sam Manger said the club received $350,000 in state funding but must raise the remaining 20 per cent to proceed.
“MRFC has contributed $35,000 of its own funds towards the project and we continue to seek further external funding for the remaining contributions, which are $50,000,” he said.
“If we cannot obtain these extra funds by July we may have to cancel the project to build the additional changerooms.”
Mr Manger said the new facilities would significantly improve the club’s accessibility and community reputation.
“New changerooms would mean we have a changeroom for both men and women home and away teams, hence they will not have to share, and a changeroom for referees which is standard but we have never had,” he said.
“The existing clubhouse lacks separate and adequate change rooms and toilets for women and girls, which hinders their participation and comfort during training sessions and matches.
“By addressing infrastructure issues, we aim to create a more welcoming and empowering environment for female players in our community.”
While changeroom upgrades remain the priority, the club is also planning to enhance the game-day experience for spectators.
“We also have plans to create an outdoor bar at the clubhouse with music and lights, to create a social and fun atmosphere at the clubhouse,” Mr Manger said.
“The games on a Friday night are already a community highlight, and will be even better once we have made these changes.”
