Standing at the newly renovated Stratford Bowls Club, it’s hard not to reflect on just how long this journey has been and how much it has meant to everyone involved.
I’ve been on this journey with the club since day one. Like so many across our region, Stratford Bowls endured devastating impacts in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Jasper. The flooding caused widespread damage, leaving the club unable to operate and the community without one of its most valued gathering places.
What followed was nothing short of heartbreaking, especially for Simone and the dedicated team behind the club. The emotional toll of seeing a place filled with memories, friendships, and community spirit so badly affected is something that stays with you. But through it all, their resilience never wavered.
Stratford Bowls Club received $521,408 through the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
This funding has been critical in helping the club get back on its feet, supporting essential recovery works such as:
- Roof restoration and ceiling repairs
- Kitchen refurbishment
- Plumbing and electrical system repairs
- Restoration of supporting infrastructure
These upgrades have not only restored the club but strengthened it for the future.
This club means so much—not just to its members, but to the entire local community. It’s a place where people come together in good times and bad, and its recovery reflects the strength of that connection.
I want to sincerely thank Minister Mander for recognising the needs of our region and taking action to support recovery efforts when it mattered most.
And to everyone at Stratford Bowls Club, thank you for your continued friendship, support, and determination. Your efforts have ensured this club remains a cornerstone of our community.
Importantly, this is not the end of the story. The club has also secured an additional $350,000 in funding for further upgrades, supported by the Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.
This investment is part of a broader $2 million commitment to upgrade six community halls across the Barron River area spaces that play a vital role not only during disasters like Cyclone Jasper, but every day as hubs for connection, events, and support.
Thank you to Minister Camm for backing this important investment in our community infrastructure.
It’s been quite the journey, but seeing the Stratford Bowls Club back on its feet is incredibly rewarding. After everything it has been through, this club truly deserves every bit of support it has received.
Stratford Bowls Club stands as a shining example of what community strength looks like. And I’m excited to see what the future holds.
I’m also looking forward to joining many of you again soon, especially at tomorrow’s ANZAC Day ceremony, which is always such a meaningful occasion.
Here’s to new beginnings, strong communities, and many more shared moments ahead.
