New forum puts focus on the future of sport in Ipswich
26 August 2021
With a 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in South East Queensland on the horizon, Ipswich City Council is hosting a new sport and recreation forum to explore what sport will look like in Ipswich in the coming decades.
Sporting clubs and organisations across the region will participate in the Ipswich 2021 Sport and Recreation Forum to explore the challenges and opportunities facing grassroots sport, and what is needed to ensure sustainable clubs of the future.
Mayor Teresa Harding said the input provided as part of the inaugural Creators of Ipswich Summit was invaluable, and Council anticipated the sports forum would provide equally impactful feedback.
“We want to hear from you: what does sport in Ipswich look like today? Where will it be in 2031? How do we get there?
“We have invited all sporting codes, clubs, groups and associations. This is an opportunity for the sporting community to talk to us, to listen and act on in the future,” Mayor Harding said.
The Ipswich 2021 Sport and Recreation Forum on 26 August will consist of two workshops for community sporting clubs and organisations.
The first workshop will give participants access to one of Australia’s leading sports governance, planning and community development consultancy groups. The second will explore current Council fees, charges and tenure arrangements to ensure fair and equitable access for all clubs in Ipswich.
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee Chair Cr Andrew Fechner said Council was keen to hear directly from the sports community on the fees and charges associated with fields and clubhouses, facilities and ground lighting.
“We want to unpack Council’s current approach to fees and charges, with the intention of streamlining it in the future,” Cr Fechner said.
“In the midst of a pandemic, it has been extremely challenging for all clubs over the past 18 months. Council has provided significant financial relief and remains committed to supporting our sporting codes and associations.
“We also want to know if we can do more to help our sports community.”
Cr Fechner said participants would be encouraged to take part in a COVID friendly networking session at the end of the forum.
The Ipswich 2021 Sport and Recreation Forum will take place on Thursday 26 August from 6pm to 9pm at North Ipswich Reserve.
For further information or registrations, contact Council’s Sport and Recreation team on 3810 6018.