2007 Press Release

Sporting Infrastructure Opened on Badu and Warraber Islands

10/04/2007            

Physical and social activity for the residents of Badu and Warraber Islands will be enhanced, with the communities officially opening their new multi-purpose sport stadiums this past Easter weekend.

The Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) Chairperson, Mr Toshie Kris, said the TSRA was pleased to support both communities by co-funding Badu’s $414,191 Jack Ahmat Stadium and Warraber’s $1.02M Aka Gin Gin Multi Purpose Centre in partnership with the Queensland Government Department of Local Government, Planning, Sport and Recreation (DLGPS&R).

“TSRA recognises that our remote location, combined with expenses associated with travel, often disadvantages individuals and groups from the region to participate in regular sporting events,” said Mr Kris.

“This limits opportunities for community members to take part in competitions and can hinder their ability to practice and develop their skills.

“It is therefore important that infrastructure within the region is of a good standard, to encourage communities be involved in activities on their own home island, which will promote their social and physical wellbeing.

“Both new sporting facilities will provide opportunities for Badu and Warraber communities to participate in a healthy lifestyle by taking part in regular sporting activities as well as being modern venues to host social, recreational and cultural events.

“The Jack Ahmat Stadium was officially opened on Thursday, 5 April and houses indoor basketball and volleyball courts, a kiosk and kitchen area, store rooms plus change rooms.

“On Saturday, 7 April, the Aka Gin Gin Multi Purpose Centre was opened and it contains a sport and recreation office, two volleyball courts, one basketball court, an amenities block and has the capacity to seat up to100 people. 

“These projects were completed through the Sport component of TSRA’s Social and Cultural Development Program, which aims to assist the Indigenous people of the region to lead independent and healthy lives.

“The Program works towards providing services and projects that will improve quality of life, as well as increase access to appropriate infrastructure and boost participation in social and cultural activities.

“I would like to commend Badu and Warraber Island Councils for their commitment to providing improved facilities and quality of life outcomes for their communities.

“In addition, I wish to acknowledge the support of the DLGPS&R, as it is partnerships and a whole of government approach such as this, that are resulting in improved services and infrastructure being delivered in the Torres Strait,” Mr Kris said.

ENDS

TSRA Media Contact: Susan Reilly Ph: 07 4069 0700.