LOCAL sporting clubs across Caloundra are set to benefit from a major investment in community infrastructure, with the first of four sports field lighting projects now complete at Baringa Football Club.
The lighting upgrades form part of a $1 million funding commitment delivered by Member for Caloundra Kendall Hatcher MP, with funding shared between Pelican Waters Bowls Club, Caloundra Rugby Union Club, Caloundra Sharks Rugby League Football Club, and Baringa Football Club.
The new lighting infrastructure will help the clubs meet growing demand from players and families, while supporting the expansion of junior and women’s sporting programs across the region.
Kendall Hatcher MP said the investment was about much more than improving facilities.
“These projects represent an investment in the future of local sport and the communities that support it,” Ms Hatcher said.
“Our sporting clubs are the backbone of our communities. They bring people together, create opportunities for people of all ages to participate, and provide a sense of belonging that extends well beyond the field.”
“The upgraded lighting will allow clubs to increase training opportunities, host more games, and accommodate growing participation numbers, particularly among junior and women’s teams.”
Baringa Football Club is the first organisation to benefit from the program, with state-of-the-art lighting now installed and operational.
The high-tech system can be activated via a mobile phone, simplifying operations and creating greater flexibility for the club to host a wider range of events and activities.
The lighting upgrade is expected to increase the availability of playing fields and improve the club’s capacity to support its growing membership base.
Work will continue across the remaining three clubs in the coming months, with lighting upgrades scheduled for Pelican Waters Bowls Club, Caloundra Rugby Union, and Caloundra Sharks Rugby League.