Federal Member for Leichhardt, Warren Entsch, has responded to recent comments made by State MP Michael Healy, who hinted at significant announcements regarding sporting infrastructure in Far North Queensland. While welcoming any investment in the region’s sporting facilities, Mr Entsch couldn’t help but note the timing and apparent opportunism of Mr Healy’s statements.
“Michael Healy’s sudden enthusiasm for making Cairns a ‘tropical sporting centre of excellence’ is interesting, to say the least,” said Mr Entsch. “One might wonder where this drive was over the past few years. It’s fascinating how the approach of an election can light a fire under even the most ineffectual members of parliament.”
Mr Entsch has long advocated for funding to position Cairns and Far North Queensland as a top destination for a tropical sports conditioning hub, a vision that he has championed for years. “This concept isn’t new. It’s something I’ve been pushing for a long time. It’s amusing to see Mr Healy now portraying himself as the champion of this initiative.”
“This all kicked off in 2010 when we established the Cairns Business and Sporting Group, that then went on to develop the Cairns Regional Master Plan,” Mr Entsch said. “Since that time, I’ve been successful in securing significant funding across a range of sporting infrastructure including, ARL, AFL, hockey, Netball, Tennis, Swimming—the list goes on.”
The original Cairns Business and Sporting Group was comprised of prominent business and sporting leaders who have a track record and commitment to the region. The likes of Rob Weeden, John O’Brien, Ron Tong, Simon Wild, Gary Young, Margot Richardson, Nick Trompf, Murray Bain, John Moore, Brett Moller, Charles Woodward and Wendy Morris have all played instrumental roles in the development and execution of some of the largest investments in, and upgrades to local sporting infrastructure over the last decade and a half.
Despite his criticisms of the Cairns MP, Mr Entsch expressed support for any genuine investment in the region’s sporting infrastructure. “I genuinely hope that these promises come to fruition. The benefits of establishing a high-performance facility in Cairns are clear: it would boost tourism, support our local athletes, and position us as a hub for elite sports training.”
However, Mr Entsch remains sceptical about the timing of these announcements. “The fact that Mr Healy is suddenly vocal about this project just months out from an election is not lost on anyone. The people of Cairns deserve consistent advocacy, not just pre-election grandstanding.”
Mr Entsch highlighted the importance of real, actionable plans over mere electioneering. “We need solid commitments and timelines, not vague promises. The community deserves transparency and genuine effort towards these goals, not just political manoeuvring.”
In conclusion, Mr Entsch urged Mr Healy to follow through on these announcements with concrete actions. “I will be the first to congratulate Mr Healy if these plans materialise and benefit our community. Until then, like most people in our region, I take everything Healy says with a grain of salt.”
