South Brisbane sport fields up for hire from 2019

EXPRESSIONS of interest will be called for community groups to utilise the new $3 million sports and recreation precinct in the booming Ripley Valley.

The new facilities are being developed in South Ripley and the Ipswich City Council anticipates they will be available for use for the 2019 winter season on a seasonal permit.

Two rectangular fields overlayed with one oval, space for a three-turf wicket block, lighting and a 100-space car park will be built in stage one in anticipation for the creation of several new clubs in the area from a range of sports, including rugby league, Australian rules, hockey and touch football.

Council said the new facility would give local kids the opportunity to enjoy all the physical, mental and social benefits of physical activity as part of a sporting club.

“Ipswich’s greatest sporting son Allan Langer started his career on a field just like this,” they said. “Over time we hope to see the establishment and growth of numerous sporting clubs based right here that will give our young people the best opportunity to excel and start their journey to greatness.”

Providence Project Director Michael Khan said the new facility was the next step in the development of a community where health and lifestyle were the central focus.

“Living a healthy and productive life with time spent in the great outdoors with family and friends is at the heart and soul of everything we do at Providence,” he said.

“To give our current and future residents access to a sporting precinct where they can enjoy any number of sports year-round has been a long-term goal and we are happy to be partnering with Ipswich City Council to deliver his important initiative.

The site has also been touted as a future major sports complex for the city.

Construction of further facilities including clubhouse and change rooms facilities, turf wicket block, additional fields and sports courts with lighting and additional car parking will be subject to securing appropriate funding in future capital works programs.

A formal name for the sporting fields will also be discussed, with some councillors referring to it as the South Ripley Sports Complex.