FUTURE rugby league stars from far north Queensland have new facilities to help hone their skills, with today’s opening of the upgraded Jones Park Rugby League Grounds in Cairns.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the Australian Government provided more than $3.5 million in funding for the $3.95 million project through the Community Infrastructure Grants programme.
“This programme delivers projects across Australia that help strengthen regional areas and their communities,” Mr Truss said.
Member for Leichhardt Warren Entsch said Cairns & District Junior Rugby League welcomed a new generation of players to the opening of the upgraded ground and facilities.
“The upgrade of the Jones Park Rugby League ground was important for the local community because the completed project provides a safe multi-use sporting venue for local and representative competitions in the region,” Mr Entsch said.
“The project works included the construction of a new clubhouse, a new building for training and administration and the construction of up to two new playing fields, lighting and spectator stands.
“This project also created 50 jobs during the construction phase, which has boosted the local economy by employing local tradespeople to carry out construction.”
Cairns & District Junior Rugby League Ltd provided $250,000 for the upgrade and a further in-kind contribution to the value of $200,000 was delivered by Kier Constructions.