The future of grassroots sport in Cairns just got brighter — and bigger.
In a major win for local sport and community development, Brothers Leagues Club in Manunda has secured $6 million in funding for Stage Two of its sports precinct redevelopment. The funding comes as part of the Crisafulli Government’s $250 million Games On! initiative, a statewide investment aimed at leaving a lasting Olympic and Paralympic legacy for all Queenslanders.
A Community Facility Built for the Future
The second stage of the redevelopment will deliver significant upgrades to the club’s facilities, including:
- Gender-inclusive changerooms to support equality in sport
- Improved lighting for safer, more accessible evening matches
- New shade structures for terraced seating areas
- Enhanced security and fencing to ensure a welcoming and safe environment
These improvements build on the work already underway as part of Stage One, which is on track for completion by June 2025.
Grassroots Support with Statewide Vision
Steven Widt, Chairman of Brothers Leagues Club, also expressed his gratitude:
“Brothers Cairns are very excited and grateful that the Premier Mr Crisafulli and the state LNP share our vision of providing a grassroots, state-of-the-art community sporting facility for Cairns.”
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander, emphasised the wider reach of the Games On! initiative:
“We want to make Queensland the undeniable home of Australian sport, and the Games On! program will play a key role in achieving that goal.”
More Than a Game: Play On! Sports Vouchers Return
In addition to Games On!, the Crisafulli Government has also announced the Play On! Sports Vouchers initiative. Originally introduced over a decade ago, this revitalised program now boasts a record $62.5 million annual investment.
Every eligible Queensland child aged 5 to 17 will receive a $200 voucher to go toward the cost of playing either summer or winter sport. The program includes dedicated allocations for children in regional and remote communities, as well as for kids living with a disability — ensuring access and opportunity for all.
What’s Next?
With the $6 million in funding for Stage Two expected to arrive in the coming weeks, the Brothers Leagues Club is ready to move ahead without delay — helping Cairns take its place in Queensland’s broader Olympic legacy.
More than 100 community clubs across the state have already benefited from the Games On! initiative, and this is just the beginning.
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