The Brisbane Lions AFLW team have been given a thrilling boost to the start of their season, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison announcing that the Federal Government will provide $15 million towards ‘The Reserve’ at Springfield.
Prime Minister Morrison announced late last month that the Federal Government’s funding will go towards the development of the Lions’ training and administration facility, which will boast a boutique 10,000 capacity stadium.
“To give women’s football, women’s AFL, a real shot in the arm, we’re announcing today $15 million for this wonderful project, The Reserve project, out at Springfield, which is going to be the new home of the Brisbane Lions women’s AFL,” Prime Minister Morrison said.
“Young girls, all over Queensland, know that there is a home for them in AFL. That there is a future for them in AFL.”
Previously securing funding of $18 million from the Springfield Land Corporation and $12 million from Ipswich City Council, the Brisbane Lions and the AFL have co-contributed $10 million towards the elite sporting facility.
Funding is still being sought from the Queensland Government.
The Reserve, which is set for completion in 2021 was desperately needed to meet the demand for AFL Women’s matches in South East Queensland, which have already shown to exceed the capacity of available community venues.
The field will also be used for community sporting matches, with infrastructure to support community use to be built underneath the grandstand.
The arena will be suitable to stage non-sporting events including festivals and community gatherings.
A new multi-storey car park is under construction at a site adjacent to The Reserve that will provide over 1,000 car parks for Springfield Central rail commuters on weekdays and for attendees of major arena events.
The initial lease at Springfield with the Lions AFLW team is for fifty years, with the men’s team still continuing to play at their current home – the Gabba.
Above: Prime Minster Scott Morrison gets into footy action with AFLW players, announcing funding for a training and administration facility at Springfield.
(Photo: Greater Springfield)
