New facilities support more girls and women to stay active in Yarrabah community

A Queensland Government combined investment of more than $1.1 million in two projects in the Yarrabah community - located 55 kilometres east of Cairns - is supporting more girls and women to stay active.

The investment in facilities at Jilara Oval will deliver female-friendly changerooms, a canteen, storage, and rooms for first aid and referees.

Local State Member for Mulgrave, Curtis Pitt and Queensland Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe today kicked off construction of new female changerooms at Jilara Oval with Pitt noting “the new female changerooms will be a gamechanger for girls’ and women’s sport and a first for Yarrabah.

“We know when girls and women have access to female changerooms they’re more likely to sign on with a local club, bring their best game to the team and excel.

“This football season, about 70 women have signed up for Yarrabah Seahawks Rugby League teams, so we know the demand is there for new changerooms.

“The changerooms will also support women’s netball, creating opportunities to host netball tournaments at the Jilara precinct. 

“Jilara Oval will deliver a culturally safe space for women and girls and more opportunities to bring the community together for sport, recreation and cultural events.

“The transformation of Jilara Oval will be created by a wholly Indigenous-owned company, HC Building and Construction, supporting three jobs during construction.”

Jilara Oval also home to the Yarrabah Music Festival, Dalari Fast 5’s Annual Netball Carnival, Yarrabah Foundation Day Sports Carnival, and Cairns and District Rugby League matches.

Construction work is expected to be finished by November.

Minister Hinchliffe also previewed a $162,000 upgrade of the nearby Yarrabah PCYC and added “this terrific renovation of the PCYC is close to completion and reopens to the community next month.

“Yarrabah PCYC provides a safe and fun space for young people to stay active, committed and connected.

“The work at PCYC is focused on existing indoor recreation spaces to include extra multi-sport activities.

“It means even more opportunity for young people because we know active Queenslanders are healthy Queenslanders.”     

Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Ross Andrews welcomed the investment of capital infrastructure funding on behalf of the community.

“These much-needed funds are important and will bring great benefits to local female athletes,” Mayor Andrews said.

“If we are to help close the gap in health inequalities, then facilities of such nature encourage our young girls and ladies engage in physical and active activities that encourage greater lifestyle choices. Thank you to the Queensland Government for this partnership.”

Image: Jilara Oval 'sod turn'