Coalition to invest in improvements for Bundaberg Netball

Bundaberg Netball is hoping a funding commitment to add extra courts and shaded grandstands will mean it can attract a state carnival to the region.

Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt announced today that a re-elected Coalition Government would invest $500,000 for Bundaberg Super Park to add to its facilities.

“This funding will allow the association to add another four courts, shaded grandstands, plus shade structures around the BBQ area to provide cover in bad weather,” Mr Pitt said.

“We all know that the former netball courts at Daph Geddes Park were flooded not once, but twice and the courts were relocated to the Bundaberg Super Park.

“By investing in sporting infrastructure the Coalition Government is growing more vibrant communities and delivering jobs and growth.”

Bundaberg Netball president Karen Holloway said the association could now “finalise everything” at the Bundaberg Super Park.

“This is the icing on the cake and will allow us to finish a project we started in 2013,” she said.

“We’ve not had any shade for when it’s sunny or shelter when it’s raining, so this funding will allow us to do all of those things.

“We’ve been in talks with Netball Queensland just recently and if we had the extra courts we could host the State Carnival.

The last time Bundaberg hosted the State Carnival was in 2010. The Bundaberg Super Park has 12 courts, with work to start on another four soon.

Ms Holloway said the State Carnival could attract around 500 teams with 10 players each and their families.

“It could potentially bring up to 10,000 people into town – they’ll all need somewhere to stay, eat and shop.”

Bundaberg and Wide Bay teams have had to travel to compete at the State Carnivals, which could cost as much as $1500 per player, she said.

“To hold the carnival here would be great for the players and other teams in the Wide Bay.”

Mr Pitt said if Bundaberg Netball was successful in hosting a state carnival here, the players would need accommodation, entertainment, and would bring a boost to the local economy.