Exciting news for the Mackay region: Stage Two of the Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) development has officially been announced, bringing with it a major expansion of facilities to support the growing demand for regional sports and community engagement.
The second stage of this transformative project will introduce a new Community Sports and Training Facility, designed to cater to a broad range of athletes—from local juniors to professional touring teams. The expanded facilities will focus on women’s sport, indoor courts, regional programs, and the introduction of an all-abilities training centre. These developments aim to create opportunities for everyone, no matter their age, ability, or background.
A New Chapter for Mackay’s Sporting Legacy
In an exciting development, Beth Mooney, one of Australia’s most accomplished cricketers, and Lauren Bella, local legend and star of the Gold Coast Suns AFLW, have been named as the inaugural ambassadors for GBRA. Both athletes bring a wealth of experience and passion for the game, and they’re excited to champion the vision of GBRA Stage Two.
Beth Mooney, fresh off Australia’s historic 2022 ICC Cricket World Cup win, says the new facility is a perfect reflection of Mackay’s evolving role in Australia’s sporting landscape. Local hero Lauren Bella, a standout ruck player for the Gold Coast Suns AFLW, is equally excited, having seen the impact Harrup Park and GBRA have had on young athletes in the region.
Local Sporting Leaders Show Strong Support
Leaders from key regional sporting organisations, including Mackay Netball, AFL Mackay, Mackay Cricket Association, Sporting Wheelies Queensland, and others, gathered to show their unwavering support for the project. This broad backing underlines the importance of the development not just for elite athletes but for grassroots sports and community engagement as well.
Adrian Young, Harrup Park General Manager, highlighted the broader vision for the region:
“Stage Two, alongside Stage One, will cement Mackay as a premier regional Queensland location for multiple sports, including cricket, AFL, netball, a wide range of disability sports, and it will grow our regional sporting economy.”
A Vision for Participation and Education
Terry Doolan, Chairman of the Mackay Cricket Association, expressed his confidence that Stage Two will complement and expand on the opportunities provided by Stage One, which was completed in December. The key focus for Stage Two is not only about hosting events, but also on participation, education, and skills development—ensuring that all levels of sport, from grassroots to elite, have the resources and facilities they need to thrive.
“Our growing regional population, combined with Mackay’s central location in Queensland, puts us in a unique position to become a vital regional hub for community sport, education, and training,” Mr Doolan said. “With its large-scale multipurpose precinct, GBRA is a perfect base for competitions, camps, clinics, and carnivals.”
Building a Legacy for Future Generations
Beth Mooney fondly remembers her team’s experience at GBRA last year during the three-match ODI series against India, saying it was one of the best crowds she’s ever played in front of.
“The whole team was pumped to be coming up here. Mackay was really important to us in reaching a generation of people we perhaps hadn’t impacted in recent years,” she said. “The community feel of Stage Two is what excites me most about this project—it’s a fantastic time for the region, and I’m proud to support it.”
For Lauren Bella, returning to Harrup Park is a special experience. As a local, she’s witnessed firsthand how the facilities have progressed over the years.
“I started when I was 11, and now, going back to my junior club, it’s incredible to see how much Harrup Park and GBRA have grown. It’s been amazing to watch.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Paralympians
The development of Stage Two is also seen as an opportunity to inspire future Paralympians. Amanda Mather, CEO of the Sporting Wheelies Association, is excited about the potential of GBRA to bring parasports into the region.
“There are so many opportunities to bring more of our great parasports to Mackay, and this facility is the perfect location to help elevate that,” she said.
Local Support for a Local Initiative
Greg Williamson, Mayor of Mackay Regional Council, expressed his pride in the development, emphasizing the locally driven nature of the project.
“I’ve witnessed firsthand the passion and drive that have transformed what was once a community cricket ground into the incredible facility we see today,” said Mr Williamson. “The best facilities are now coming to our town, and that’s something we can all be proud of.”
What’s Coming in Stage Two
The new Community Sports and Training Facility will feature:
- High ball courts and spectator seating for major indoor sports like basketball and netball.
- A gym and indoor training facilities for year-round training and development.
- Accommodation for regional sporting program participants, ensuring athletes have a place to stay while attending events or training.
- Fully accessible indoor training facilities to cater to athletes of all abilities.
With an estimated construction cost of $15–20 million, the new facility will be a key addition to the growing sports infrastructure in Mackay.
Great Barrier Reef Arena (GBRA) is rapidly becoming a regional hub for sports, education, and community engagement. As Stage Two of the development moves forward, the focus will continue to be on inclusivity, opportunity, and legacy, ensuring that Mackay remains at the forefront of regional sports in Queensland.
With elite training facilities, all-abilities support, and a community-driven approach, GBRA is set to inspire athletes and spectators alike for years to come.
