Partnerships established between schools and local clubs to share sports infrastructure in Logan

Situated in the City of Logan, Queensland, Browns Plains State School and Browns Plains Mets Rugby Union will both now use new sporting infrastructure built at the school as part of the Queensland Government’s landmark Community Use of Schools Program.

More than $900,000 has been invested to install floodlights and build change rooms, toilets, a canteen and clubhouse.

This project was funded by the Queensland Government ($832,102), Logan City Council ($50,000) and Browns Plains State School ($30,000).

The Mets rugby club has entered into a 10-year partnership with Browns Plains State School, so a whole generation of players and students will benefit from these new facilities.

Queensland Minister for Education Grace Grace said schools are establishing partnerships with local sports and recreation clubs so both can access quality facilities.

“Through this program we’re showing that funding infrastructure based on shared facilities is a model that works,” Minister Grace said.

“Students will naturally build connections with their local sporting clubs, while the clubs themselves can cater for growing demand by utilising new training spaces.”

Browns Plains State School Principal Wuanita Meyrick said it’s a privilege to see the Mets Rugby Union Club, which has strong community ties, have its home ground and facilities at the school.

“Our long-term partnership will have a positive impact on our students, our families and our wider community,” Meyrick said.

“As well as supporting the club, these facilities will allow our P&C to make use of our school oval for day or night events and fundraisers.”

Browns Plains Mets Junior Rugby Union Club President Denise Te Popo said it’s wonderful the club now finally has a secure, safe home for its young community.

“We can expand our training options, gain more members and host carnivals for rugby union, rugby sevens and other sports,” Te Popo said.

“The canteen and clubhouse will allow us to stabilise financially to ensure lower fees for our children so they can enjoy the sports they love.”

Shailer Park State High School and Logan Basketball Association have also secured new facilities through the pilot program, with the school’s indoor sports hall undergoing a $1.53 million refurbishment.

Image courtesy of Queensland Government