Much-needed upgrades will be delivered at Maryborough’s Eskdale Park under a re-elected Albanese Labor Government thanks to a $3 million commitment which will boost local sport across the Wide Bay region.

Labor Candidate for Wide Bay Elliot Chalmers welcomed Senators for Queensland Anthony Chisholm and Murray Watt and Labor Senate Candidate Corinne Mulholland to Eskdale Park today to announce the election commitment.

Eskdale Park’s current facilities don’t cater for the rising popularity of women’s sport, which has caused headaches for Queensland Rugby League’s operations across the Wide Bay-Burnett region.

Upgrade works at the precinct are set to feature a new administration building, women’s changerooms, a renovated canteen, new referee and first aid facilities, upgraded lighting and new spectator stands.  

The upgrades will allow Queensland Rugby League to offer appropriate facilities to host women's sporting competitions as the code continues to gain popularity.

Consistent with past practice, the election commitment for Eskdale Park will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.

Quotes attributable to Senator for Queensland, Murray Watt:

“We know the important role local sport has in getting people out and about, keeping fit, keeping social and making new connections.

“These upgrades will help make local facilities more welcoming for more people, and we’re proud to deliver for Maryborough.”

Quotes attributable to Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm:

“Getting more young people involved in their local sporting clubs depends on the local facilities they can access.

“By investing in projects like this one, we’re supporting local sporting clubs right across the Wide Bay to foster and support the next Ali Brigginshaw and Pat Carrigan.”

Quotes attributable to Labor Candidate for Wide Bay Elliott Chalmers:

“This investment will ensure local teams from all over the Wide Bay electorate have a great space to play and meet up with mates.

"I'm delighted that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will back this project, which will help the local club expand their reach and sign up more players.”

Quotes attributable to Labor Senate Candidate for Queensland Corinne Mulholland:

“Women and young girls using the men’s changerooms isn’t going to cut it, especially as league continues to grow in popularity.

"As we’ve shown through programs like Play Our Way, the Albanese Labor Government is committed to doing what we can to get more women and girls into community sport, and that starts with better facilities.”