Fraser Coast Sports Precinct set to welcome Brisbane Roar training base

A-League team Brisbane Roar will establish a ‘Regional Centre of Excellence’ on the Fraser Coast, with the region's Mayor saying it proves the worth of the Council's investment in the Fraser Coast Sports and Recreation Precinct.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said Council would partner with the Brisbane Roar and Football Queensland to establish the centre at the Precinct in a move he says will inject $1.5 million into the local economy.

The Centre of Excellence will aim to connect young players from Gympie to Mackay with a development pathway in the sport.

Speaking after the announcement, Mayor Seymour explained "it means our young footballers will have access to some of the best coaches and players in the country (and) is a really good opportunity for regional footballers to have a pathway to the A-League, the kind of opportunity that capital city kids take for granted."

“It could mean up to seven events a year on the Fraser Coast including three training clinics for nine to 12 year olds, three talent identification camps for 13 to 16 year olds, and an Under 18 Youth League game.

“This will be a massive boost for the Fraser Coast with these events expected to collectively inject $1.5 million into the local economy and attract up to 6500 people to the region, including players, spectators, family and friends.

“It will help cement the Fraser Coast as a hub for regional Queensland football and highlights the benefits of establishing a sports precinct with high quality fields and facilities.”

Brisbane Roar Chief Executive, David Pourre said the club had demonstrated a strong commitment to the Fraser Coast, advising “Brisbane Roar is Queensland’s only A-League club and has proven itself an established pathway between Queensland’s junior football and the Hyundai A-League.

“Our Talent Support Programs provide young players with access to a quality training environment which complements their club training and helps them to reach their full potential.”

The establishment of the Brisbane Roar Centre of Excellence follows last year’s four-day camp on the Fraser Coast, which culminated in a special pre-season game between the Roar and a Wide Bay Select team on Saturday 21st September 2019.

The $55 million Fraser Coast Sports and Recreation Precinct opened in February 2019.

Image: The Roar's planned centre of excellence hopes to provide a pathway for young players to develop. Courtesy of Fraser Coast Regional Council.