Livingstone Scores Grant for New Casual Sporting Facilities

Published on 29 July 2025

Livingstone Shire Council is thrilled to announce it has secured $31,500 through the Gambling Community Benefit Fund to deliver new casual sporting facilities for local parks in Yeppoon and Glenlee.

Recreation and Culture Committee Co-Chair Andrea Friend welcomed the funding, saying it will help create more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy sport and recreation across the Shire.

“Council is committed to making sport and physical activity more accessible, and this funding will go a long way in helping us create inclusive, turn-up-and-play spaces for our community,” Cr Friend said.

“These new facilities will allow residents to enjoy casual games of handball at Merv Anderson Park in Yeppoon, and shoot hoops at Glenlee Park – no bookings, no fees, just healthy fun.”

The project follows recommendations in Council’s 2023 Sporting Needs Analysis, which identified a growing demand for casual and informal sporting options in parks and public spaces.

Keppel MP Nigel Hutton said investing in healthy outdoor recreation for all ages is an investment in our health and wellbeing.

“I applaud Livingstone Shire Council for seeking to make our public spaces more engaging, interactive and enjoyable,” Mr Hutton said.

“We live in one of the most beautiful regions and I encourage everyone to get outside and embrace everything our community has to offer.

“The installation of new courts, rebound walls and basketball hoops will bring yet another reason for us to connect with our community.

“I look forward to playing a game of handball with Cr Friend.”

Livingstone’s Active Livingstone Strategies and Community Plan 2050 are key drivers behind the project, aiming to support healthier, more active lifestyles and foster stronger community connections.

"These are the kinds of facilities that bring people together – kids, teens, adults – anyone can get involved, stay active, and have fun," Cr Friend said.

“We're incredibly grateful to the Queensland Government and the Gambling Community Benefit Fund for their support.”

Construction is expected to commence in the coming months, with both facilities ready for community use later this year.