Sunshine Coast families are being urged to lend their support to a community petition calling for more indoor sports courts, as demand across the region continues to outstrip supply.
Sunshine Coast Council is rallying residents to support a proposal for a new 12-court regional indoor sports centre, saying existing facilities from the hinterland to the coast are already operating at — or near — full capacity.
For many families, that shortage means children and adults are missing out on playing the sports they love.
Council estimates the region already needs at least 15 additional indoor courts to meet current demand. Without action, that shortfall could grow to more than 40 courts within the next two decades as the Sunshine Coast population continues to expand.
Mayor Rosanna Natoli said indoor sport plays an important role in bringing communities together.
“Our community deserves modern, accessible indoor courts that allow locals to play the sport they love,” Mayor Natoli said.
“Indoor sport creates a shared space where people of all ages can come together, build friendships and feel a sense of belonging.”
Indoor sports on the rise
Participation in indoor sports such as basketball, futsal and pickleball is rising rapidly, fuelled by population growth and increasing participation from women and girls.
Council says new facilities are also needed to meet contemporary standards, including improved accessibility for para-sport athletes.
Two potential sites have been identified for the proposed facility: the Honey Farm Road Sports Precinct and land along David Low Way at Mudjimba.
Sunshine Coast Basketball Association General Manager Sean Page said the lack of indoor courts is already preventing many people from participating.
“Our indoor facilities are fragmented, stretched and in many cases outdated — they were never designed to support the level of demand we’re seeing today,” Mr Page said.
“Clubs are doing everything they can, but there simply aren’t enough courts, which means kids, adults, para-athletes and new players are missing out.”
Council is now calling on the State and Federal Governments to invest in the project — and urging the community to show its support by signing the petition.
Residents can add their voice to the campaign online, with Council saying it takes just 30 seconds to sign.
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