IPSWICH City Council’s efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of the region’s booming community and grassroots sports sector will be the focus of this weekend’s Ipswich Sports Forum.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said sporting clubs and associations are central to communities and the success of its athletes are a major source of pride for the people of Ipswich.
“Sport and activities are a major part of the fabric of life in Ipswich, bringing people together to enhance our city’s social and cultural dynamic, as well as improving health outcomes,” Mayor Harding said.
“With a rapidly growing population, it is important that council has a clear understanding of how we can continue to support and grow our sporting clubs while ensuring our community sporting landscape is sustainable in the long term.
“That means coming together to share successes and to discuss what the community sporting landscape will look like in coming years.
“This is an exciting time for our city’s sporting sector. It will create new opportunities for clubs to take hold of their future through learning, collaboration and strengthening of partnerships across the city.”
Community and Sport Committee Chairperson Councillor Jacob Madsen said Saturday’s Ipswich Sports Forum at the North Ipswich Reserve Corporate Centre would bring key stakeholders, including club representatives, together with council.
“Council will outline our current and future efforts in improving community sport assets and infrastructure, and where there are opportunities for clubs to play a role,” Cr Madsen said.
“Attendees will also have the opportunity to hear from Michael Connelly, an expert in sports governance, planning and community development, who will discuss management models for clubs and the importance of developing a sustainable tenure model that empowers clubs with the support of council to both grow and prosper into the future.
“Michael brings a wealth of knowledge from his vast experience working with clubs, organisations and councils to ensure sport and recreation thrives across communities.”
If you would like to attend the forum and are affiliated with a local sporting club, contact Ipswich City Council Sport and Recreation via sportrecreation@ipswich.qld.gov.au.
