Game-changing upgrade for local sporting women
Women and girls across the Sunshine Coast will benefit from new amenities at the Caloundra Indoor Stadium precinct, helping make sport and physical activity more accessible, inclusive and fun.
The project received over $880,000 through the Australian Government's Play Our Way Program which aims to support greater participation in sport for women and girls.
Sunshine Coast Council contributed a further $20,000, bringing the total investment to $900,000.
The new facility at the sports complex on North Street, Caloundra delivers a modern, inclusive and accessible amenities building with eight cubicles, one accessible cubicle with integrated shower, service room and storage room, along with adjoining pathways and concrete seating.
More than just a building
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the project was about creating opportunities for women and girls to participate in sport, supporting healthier lifestyles and strengthening the connections that sport brings to our communities.
"This facility is about much more than a building,” Mayor Natoli said.
“It’s an important investment in community infrastructure and the future of women's sport across the region.
"It tells women and girls that their needs matter and ensures that they can see a long-term future playing sport.
"The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia's fastest-growing regions and it's important our community infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of our residents, sporting organisations and visitors.
"We're proud to partner with the Australian Government through the Play Our Way Program to deliver facilities that support greater inclusion, accessibility and participation, while helping local sporting organisations continue to grow and thrive."
A home for sport at every level
Division 2 Councillor Terry Landsberg said the upgraded amenities would be particularly beneficial for the local netball community and the growing number of women and girls participating in sport.
"Caloundra District Netball Association has been creating opportunities for local players for more than 40 years and continues to play an important role in developing athletes from grassroots participation through to representative pathways,” Cr Landsberg said.
"This fantastic new facility gives players, volunteers, families and visitors access to modern, safe and welcoming amenities that reflect the needs and expectations of today's sporting community.
"Importantly, these upgrades help create an environment where women and girls, and others using the outdoor courts, feel supported and encouraged to participate in sport at every level, whether they're just starting out or pursuing higher representative honours.”
Established in 1984, Caloundra District Netball Association provides participation opportunities from junior development programs through to senior and representative competitions, supporting pathways into elite netball programs on the Sunshine Coast.
This activity received grant funding from the Australian Government Play Our Way funding program.
(Left to right) Joelle Brown - Vice President Caloundra District Netball Association, Julie Jones - President Caloundra District Netball Association, Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport Anika Wells:
“The $200 million Play Our Way program is the most significant commitment any government has ever made to women and girls sporting programs and facilities.
“Play Our Way is about breaking down the barriers that can stop women and girls from getting involved in sport, by investing in the facilities and opportunities they need to participate.
“Local sporting clubs are at the heart of their communities, and these upgrades will give Caloundra District Netball Association members a space where they can play, connect and continue to grow their netball skills.”
Play Our Way
The Play Our Way Program was established to promote equitable opportunities for women and girls to benefit from sport at all levels and locations by addressing the barriers they experience when participating in sport and physical activity.
The Caloundra Indoor Stadium outdoor amenities upgrade reached practical completion on 30 October 2026 and will provide lasting benefits for local clubs and the broader community for generations to come.
For more information about Play Our Way, visit: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/sport/our-work/play-our-way-program