Funding for female-friendly facilities a welcome change for local league club

Scenic Rim Regional Council has scored more than $1.13 million in Australian Government funding for female-friendly change rooms to support participation of women and girls in local rugby league. 

The project is expected to commence mid-year for the modular design change rooms and amenities building with toilets and shower facilities at Willis Park, home to the Beaudesert Kingfishers Rugby League Club.  

An accessible toilet will also be built as part of the project, which is expected to be completed by July 2026.  

Scenic Rim's Sport and Recreation Portfolio Councillor Stephen Moriarty said the Kingfishers Rugby League Club, which welcomes players from six years of age, will benefit greatly from the new facilities. 

“Women’s sport, and rugby league clubs which cater to all ages, are an important part of the Scenic Rim’s vibrant community, contributing to the livability of our great region,” he said. 

“This project closes the gap on an important need at Willis Park, as the existing facilities do not currently accommodate the needs of female players and the broader wellbeing of spectators. 

“Council is grateful for the Australian Government’s grant of $1,138,423 through the Play Our Way Program, which provides funding for local initiatives and ideas to address participation barriers faced by women and girls.” 

The Beaudesert Kingfishers Rugby League Club currently has 320 registered players, including 80 female players.  

It has experienced significant growth in recent years, with home games attracting between 1,500 and 2,000 spectators.  

The development of new female-friendly change rooms was initially identified in Council's Sports Facilities Strategic Review 2023-2032 as an opportunity to support the growth of female participation in rugby league.  

Kingfishers Rugby League Club President Justin Kummerow welcomed the announcement of funding for the new facilities. 

“This is a massive win for us, particularly with the girls’ games,” he said. 

“At present we only have two change rooms which are tired, so to have four change rooms and more importantly new, accessible toilets is really significant. 

“This represents a massive investment and we are so excited to have had Council’s support in this.”