The Morrison Government will invest $418,500 in upgrading and improving facilities at Cairns Cycling Club to ensure the region’s cyclists have access to state-of-the-art facilities.
The investment was secured in this year’s federal budget as part of the government’s highly-successful Community Sport Infrastructure Grant Program.
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said he had been working closely with Cairns Cycling Club, particularly with Richie Bates and James Mort, to secure this much-needed funding.
He said this was about listening, acting and delivering for the community.
“We can invest in this type of local sporting infrastructure, without having to increases taxes, because of our responsible economic management and strong economy,” Mr Entsch said.
“This investment will make a real and significant difference to the people who use Cairns Cycling Club and is something I am extremely proud to be able to deliver.
“The Morrison Government is supporting local grassroots sports because we recognise the wider health, social and community benefits that come from greater activity and participating in sport.
“It is a key priority of our government to promote the social and health benefits of physical activity and sport and our investment to upgrade facilities and infrastructure.”
Mr Entsch said the $418,500 investment will go towards upgrades that will improve amenities and functionality Cairns Cycling Club,
“This investment will be used towards the redevelopment of Smith Park Cycledrome by building a universal amenities and administration block as well as refurbishing the clubhouse,” he said.
“This project will provide much-needed modern facilities including administration offices, training/meeting room, first aid room, official’s room, kiosk, club hire bicycles and members personal bicycle storage.”
Cairns Cycling Club president Richie Bates said this was a vital piece of community infrastructure.
“Our sport is going through resurgence and this funding will provide a significant boost to cycling across our region,” Mr Bates said.
“Refurbishment of the Smith Park facilities will support our training programs and junior development.
“Improved lighting and clubhouse facilities will bring the venue into the 21st century and compliment recent track improvements.
“This will be a great asset for the community and foster new opportunities for our youth and those wanting to participate in in cycling.”
Cairns Cycling Club vice-president James Mort said welcomed the funding and said Warren Entsch had delivered on his promise to secure this investment for the club.
“Warren listened to us and was concerned about the state of the cycling club amenities, he worked tirelessly and has now delivered on his promise,” Mr Mort said.
“This is great start for the club to propel us into the future and provide much-needed updated facilities for our members, including women and juniors.”