Federal Government funding helps fast-tracking of new Sunshine Coast sporting precinct

January 10, 2025

Backed by funding from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program, the Sunshine Coast Council has announced the fast tracking of a new sports complex to be located at Meridan Plains.

The $25 million in Federal Government funding will be split with a new streetscape project in Maroochydore.

Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli welcomed the Australian Government commitment - matched by Council - to progress these two critical projects, stating “Council selected the Honey Farm Sports and Recreation Precinct and the First Avenue Streetscape to be supported due to the benefit they will deliver to our community.

“They will provide much-needed community facilities, parklands and infrastructure to create a healthier and more connected community and support our local businesses.

“The Honey Farm Sports and Recreation Precinct will now be delivered faster than anticipated. Our community will be enjoying some of these facilities as soon as next year.”

Honey Farm Sports and Recreation Precinct Stage 1 – funding of $13.6 million

The Honey Farm Sport and Recreation Precinct is a greenfield sports complex that will provide a major regional sporting, recreation and community precinct for the Sunshine Coast.

The precinct at Meridan Plains will feature first-class sporting fields and ovals for football (soccer) and cricket, hardcourt activities, skateboarding and disc golf.

It will also feature playgrounds, nature trails, wetland experiences, dog-friendly areas and opportunities for community events.

Sunshine Coast Councillor Christian Dickson said the funding received through the Growing Regions Program Round 2 would help Council deliver Stage 1, noting “we are thrilled to receive this funding, which will help bring this major regional precinct to life for our entire community.

“Sport and recreation facilities play such an important role in our local community and this one has been planned in conjunction with the people of the Sunshine Coast.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity that has been shaped by our community to create a healthy and active precinct for our whole community to enjoy now and into the future.”

The Honey Farm Sport and Recreation Precinct will also provide a new home for some sports relocated as part of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games infrastructure improvements.

This funding is a partial contribution towards a $100 million precinct development.

Sunshine Coast Council is aiming to have the football fields operational in 2026.

Lower image: Artists impression of the Honey Farm Sport and Recreation Precinct at Meridan Plains.

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