Cassowary Coast Regional Council...2014/03/13 · Overview- Policy Vision ..... 62 10.1.2. Policy...

Cassowary Coast

Regional Council

Interim Sport and

Recreation Plan

Draft Report

STRATEGIC LEISURE GROUP

October 2013

Interim Sport and Recreation Plan Draft Report October 2013

Prepared by: STRATEGIC LEISURE GROUP

Spaces – Places – People ®

Brisbane Office (PO Box 1358) Suite 8, 29 Mt Cotton Road CAPALABA QLD 4157 Ph: (07) 3823 5688 E-mail: [email protected]

Cairns Office (PO Box 857), Suite 44, 5 Faculty Close SMITHFIELD QLD 4878

Ph: (07) 4055 6250 E-mail: [email protected]

© 2013 Strategic Leisure Pty Ltd t/a Strategic Leisure Group,. This document may only be used for the purposes for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the terms of engagement for the commission. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.

mailto:[email protected]

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 1

2. RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................................................................................... 2

2.1. PLANNING & POLICY ......................................................................................................................... 1 2.2. FACILITIES ....................................................................................................................................... 4 2.3. MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAMS ......................................................................................................... 8

3. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................ 11

3.1. STUDY PURPOSE ............................................................................................................................. 11 3.2. METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................................................. 12 3.3. OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................................... 13

4. BACKGROUND RESEARCH ............................................................................................................. 14

4.1. LITERATURE REVIEW ....................................................................................................................... 14

5. POPULATION ANALYSIS ................................................................................................................ 20

5.1. CURRENT POPULATION .................................................................................................................... 20 5.2. PROJECTED POPULATION ................................................................................................................. 21 5.3. AGE ............................................................................................................................................. 23 5.4. SUMMARY OF KEY DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS ............................................................................. 23 5.5. POSSIBLE IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORT AND RECREATION PLANNING ............................................................ 23

6. TREND ANALYSIS .......................................................................................................................... 25

6.1. TRENDS INFLUENCING SPORT AND RECREATION PARTICIPATION .............................................................. 25 6.1.1. General Trends and Observations on Sport and Recreation Participation ....................... 25 6.1.2. Trends in Outdoor Recreation in Parks ............................................................................. 26

6.2. PARTICIPATION IN EXERCISE, RECREATION AND SPORT ........................................................................... 26 6.2.1. Latest NCCRS report 2012 ................................................................................................. 26 6.2.2. Queensland Data .............................................................................................................. 28 6.2.3. ERASS Results Australia Wide ........................................................................................... 29 6.2.4. ERASS Results Queensland ................................................................................................ 33

6.3. CHILDREN’S PARTICIPATION IN LEISURE AND SPORT ............................................................................... 39 6.4. PARTICIPATION BY WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SPORT AND RECREATION ......................................................... 42

6.4.1. About Time! ...................................................................................................................... 42 6.5. TRENDS AND ISSUES IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY .......................................................................................... 45 6.6. IMPLICATIONS OF TRENDS FOR RECREATION PLANNING .......................................................................... 46

7. POLICY AND MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW....................................................................................... 48

7.1. EXISTING POLICY FRAMEWORK .......................................................................................................... 48

8. FACILITIES OVERVIEW ................................................................................................................... 49

8.1. INDOOR (SPORTS) FACILITIES ............................................................................................................ 49 8.1.1. Police and Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) ............................................................................... 50 8.1.2. “The Igloo” (JP Byrne Sports Stadium) .............................................................................. 50 8.1.3. Tully MPC .......................................................................................................................... 50 8.1.4. Innisfail State College Sports Centre ................................................................................. 50

8.2. AQUATIC FACILITIES ........................................................................................................................ 51 8.2.1. Innisfail Swimming Pool .................................................................................................... 51 8.2.2. Tully Memorial Baths ........................................................................................................ 51 8.2.3. Cardwell Pool .................................................................................................................... 51 8.2.4. Future Mission Beach Aquatic facility ............................................................................... 51

8.3. SPORTS PRECINCTS ......................................................................................................................... 52

8.3.1. Callendar Park ................................................................................................................... 52 8.3.2. Goondi Bend (Innisfail Combined Sporting Assoc) ............................................................ 52 8.3.3. Innisfail State College oval ................................................................................................ 52 8.3.4. Castor Park, Mourilyan ..................................................................................................... 52 8.3.5. Pease Park......................................................................................................................... 53 8.3.6. Tully Showgrounds ............................................................................................................ 53 8.3.7. Tully Sports Reserve .......................................................................................................... 54 8.3.8. MARCS Park – Mission Beach ........................................................................................... 54 8.3.9. Centenary Park, Silkwood ................................................................................................. 55 8.3.10. Cardwell Sports Reserve .................................................................................................... 55

8.4. WATER-BASED SPORT FACILITIES ........................................................................................................ 55 8.5. SKATE PARKS AND YOUTH SPACES....................................................................................................... 56 8.6. SINGLE USE FACILITIES ..................................................................................................................... 56

8.6.1. Golf Clubs, Bowls Clubs ..................................................................................................... 56 8.7. DIFFICULT TO LOCATE SPORTS ........................................................................................................... 57

8.7.1. Tully Motorsports .............................................................................................................. 57

9. CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE CASSOWARY COAST ............................................... 58

9.1. AGEING POPULATION/ CHANGING DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE ...................................................................... 58 9.2. AGEING INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................................................................................ 58 9.3. BUILDING ON THE ADVENTURE RECREATION MARKET IN TULLY AND MISSION BEACH .................................. 59

10. APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................. 61

10.1. APPENDIX ONE- SPORT AND RECREATION POLICY FRAMEWORK .............................................................. 62 10.1.1. Overview- Policy Vision ..................................................................................................... 62 10.1.2. Policy Implementation ...................................................................................................... 62

10.2. APPENDIX TWO – LEVEL OF SERVICE AND PROVISION FRAMEWORK .......................................................... 64

Cassowary Coast Interim Sport & Recreation Plan – Draft Report Page | 1

Strategic Leisure Group

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Interim Sport and Recreation Plan for Cassowary Coast Regional Council relies, mostly, on the

previous sport, recreation, open space and facilities studies and plans completed for Johnstone Shire and

Cardwell Shire. Additional issues analysis was undertaken through discussions with staff and a review of

current trends in sport and recreation participation. The Plan is an interim measure designed to amalgamate

the previous plans and to provide guidance to council over the short to medium term. It recognises the

current financial and resourcing constraints that council is under while it completes recovery from major

cyclones and the austere financial climate that all local government in Queensland operates within.

A number of reports were reviewed and actions proposed from the previous plans were reviewed with CCRC

staff and updated for currency.

Key issues identified were:

The dispersed nature of the region’s population with numerous small communities

Historical/legacy infrastructure that is ageing and becoming increasingly costly to maintain.

This is compounded with the changed demographics in some areas meaning the importance

to the community of some infrastructure has diminished.

Areas of population growth where sport and recreation facility provision has not kept up with

growing need (mainly Mission Beach)

Clubs are struggling with volunteer commitment and participation in formal/ traditional

competitive sport may be declining in favour of more individual modes of participation (“pay

play and away”), social sports, endurance sports (such as triathlon and running) and,

adventure sports.

The cost of recovery from two major cyclones in recent years has meant that no funding for

renewal of infrastructure has been available unless it was undertaken as part of cyclone

recovery.

The following recommendations result from:

Reviewing previous recommendations for relevance and currency;

Reviewing progress in the implementation and improvement to sport and recreation facilities within

the region since the previous plans were completed

An analysis and application of the changing demographics and participation trends as they impact

on facility and activity provision in Cassowary Coast.

It is recommended that a full plan based on more extensive engagement with the community, and additional

primary research be prepared within the next 3 years.



2. RECOMMENDATIONS

Recommendations are presented for discussion with Council and consultation with the Community.

Priorities should be confirmed as follows, at the conclusion of consultation:

(S) Short term (1 – 2 years)

(M) Medium term (3 – 5 years)

(L) Long term (5 years +)

(O) Ongoing

The recommendations are then provided in implementation/ action plan format to enable the Cassowary

Coast Regional Council officers to translate the appropriate information to the Asset Management system.

Recommendations are grouped into the following headings:

1. Planning & Policy

2. Facilities

3. Management and Programs

The cost of implementing recommendations would be beyond the responsibility and/ or capacity of Council

to fund in its own right. To this end, external funding should be sought wherever possible and/ or

partnerships with other agencies or individual sport and recreation clubs.



2.1. PLANNING & POLICY

STRATEGY RECOMMENDATION RATIONALE TIME

FRAME

2.1.1 Plan for the provision of adequate sport & recreation land in response to population growth and profile

1. Review the proposed policy framework in Appendix One and adopt a new policy.

2. Review the Level of Service (for sport and recreation) draft detailed in Appendix Two and adopt a final version.

3. Review the Desired Standards of Service recommendations of the Open Space Report (2013) and prepare a new Desired Standards of Service for the Regional Council which reflects recent (and any further) changes in the legislation.

4. Update population projections for Council as a whole and agree on individual planning areas/ localities which can be used for more detailed provision planning for future populations

There is a need for a single policy framework to replace the two approaches inherited from the prior councils. Adopting a policy framework allows council to link activities and decisions to the agreed policy outcomes and improve a strategic approach to use of councils limited resources. A Level of Service for sport and recreation provision needs to be adopted so that priorities for investment can be linked to equity across the region. Planning for future provision (and the deployment of existing resources) needs accurate population data as well as agreed “catchments” which can be used for integrated planning of services and facilities.

S

2.1.2 Examine potential for Cassowary Coast to build on its existing reputation for adventure recreation/sports and endurance sport

1. A specific and detailed plan for the activities, locations and partnering organisations should be developed for Council consideration and implementation as a considered strategy to grow this industry. General principles include:

Identifying how all the elements link and the best prospects for expanding market share

Foster and maintain robust relationships with community organisations

Clarify and tailor support mechanisms – facilities, assistance, advice, training, funding

Build collaborative mechanisms for strong clubs/ groups should help the smaller/ weaker;

Multi-purpose facilities – sharing only – no single use(r) facilities

Build a robust program of maintenance/ rehabilitation of facilities so that the future costs/ liabilities to these are well known

Support to clubs/ organisations to broaden their activity products – develop and deliver activity programs that cater more for (older) adults.

2. In association with local and regional tourism bodies, examine the potential for

The region has an established reputation for adventure recreation and needs to further distinguish its destination appeal. The establishment and hosting of key events will assist in marketing the destinations. Work completed for the Trails Report (2013) has identified there is significant potential to expand further the suite of activities available and to broaden appeal to the market. Building on this potential will be important to the local economy and will strengthen the region’s economic resilience.

S-M




FRAME

Cassowary Coast Region to host regular major events in non-mainstream/ adventure sports such as motocross, rafting, skydiving. The study should include:

Events available, number of participants, accommodation required

The event allocation process (e.g. tender, rotation/updated etc.)

Realistic likelihood and frequency of staging in identified centres of the region, e.g. Tully

Capital and operational cost implications of facility upgrades for Council/ clubs

The management capability of local clubs/ groups to host major events

Potential tourism and economic benefits

2.1.3 Regular review and update of the CCRC Sport & Recreation Plan, implementation/ action plan as part of Council’s annual planning and budget cycle.

1. Review the recommendations of the CCRC Sport and Recreation Plan annually

2. Undertake a new plan with detailed public consultation, within the next three years.

This plan is based on pre-existing plans and while many of the issues remain and progress has been made on infrastructure issues, there is a need for annual review to track progress and adjust priorities . A new plan with detailed consultation and updated primary research is required to adequately plan for the next 5- 10 years

S

2.1.4 A new policy on community use of council land and facilities should be prepared.

1. Undertake a review of all current leasing and tenure arrangements and document the range of responsibilities and support that existing in different agreements.

2. Investigate the cost profiles of the various arrangements and the linkage with the level of community use and benefit.

3. Develop a new policy framework that establishes greater equity across the old council areas and identifies sustainable approaches to enabling community use.

4. The policy framework needs to provide certainty to clubs so they can plan for the future of their facilities.

Following amalgamation the new council inherited a range of approaches to community use and leasing. Historical arrangements have not always considered equitable approaches across the council area. It is important for council to ensure that its limited resources are shared fairly in supporting community groups and that land or facilities are not unreasonably monopolised by single user groups when there is unmet demand.

M

2.1.5 A club support policy should be developed which guides grants and in-kind support provided to clubs and community groups.

1. Following the adoption of an overall sport and recreation policy (or policy framework) then the rationale for a club support policy can be linked.

2. The policy should be developed in consultation with clubs and groups and this discussion should be based around the facts on the support that council currently provides as well as policy priorities (e.g. supporting multi-use, supporting events, sustainable clubs etc.).

A formal policy is recommended to guide any grants and in-kind support programs and is the basis for assistance programs. It allows for the objective assessment of requests based on agreed criteria and links to policy aims . Having a policy also allows council to demonstrate fairness in allocation of support resources.

Requests for support should only be

S-M




FRAME

considered where existing sporting

facilities or proposed new facilities

demonstrate multiple use and

feasibility and sustainability.



2.2. FACILITIES

Future provision of public parks and sporting fields will be undertaken according to the Desired Standards of

Service. This provision is based on the demand created by the additional population to be accommodated in

each of the growth catchments, and by the capacity within existing facilities to cater for increased population,

changes in the population profile and the rise and decline of preferred activities.

At current (2013) population levels and facility provision, the short to medium term focus needs to be on

consolidation, rationalisation, improving utilisation of existing facilities and spaces before expanding or

developing more. Requests for support for or for the establishment of new facilities should be considered for

location at one of the existing sporting facilities, with the investment to be in converting the facility and

amenities to support the new use as additional capacity.

Table 1: Current supply and future capacity

CATCHMENT RECREATION AND SPORTING FIELDS/ FACILITIES

Mission Beach South / Wongaling/ Carmoo

(growth area)

Current supply of sporting land poor.

Existing deficit of 4+ Ha needed for sport (an area to support 2 x multi-use fields)

The major facility priority is an aquatic facility.

Innisfail Current supply of sporting land is good, with surplus enabling capacity for future growth

Tully Existing surplus- sufficient capacity for future growth.

Showgrounds offers high potential for improved multiple uses

Tully Hull Heads Current lack of any developed sporting land.

Indications that youth recreation is an emerging priority.

Can meet current and future demand with development of a small field on existing land at community centre.

Cardwell Current minor surplus.

Further upgrading of existing sporting parks and facilities considered sufficient for future demand.

Silkwood Further upgrading of existing sporting parks and facilities considered sufficient for future demand.

South Johnstone Further upgrading of existing sporting parks and facilities considered sufficient for future demand.

Balance Most small communities have access to some form of sporting field or facility (either on council or school land). There is limited growth anticipated and access to major facility needs (e.g. pools) can be provided at the main townships.

Table 2 provides the recommended acquisition and upgrade plan to 2026 (based on the previous plans and

the Priority Infrastructure Planning undertaken for council.

Table 2: Current acquisition and upgrade plans for recreation and sporting Infrastructure


Mission Beach South/ Wongaling/ Carmoo

Acquire an additional 5ha minimum for development of a sporting precinct. Develop for field sports and other sports as demand emerges

Upgrade Frogs Hollow sportsfield

Develop a pool as planned.




Innisfail No additional facilities or land, rationalise and consolidate the use of existing facilities.

Tully Upgrade the Showgrounds Precinct as per the Masterplan.

Tully / Hull Heads Develop a sports field at the Community Centre

Cardwell No additional Land, Upgrade the Sports Reserve

Facility Recommendations


FRAME

2.2.1 Plan for the upgrading of existing sport & recreation facilities in response to organisational and population growth

1. A final Master Plan should be prepared for MARCS Park based on the final plan prepared as part of the Aquatic centre feasibility and concept design.

2. Prepare a Master Plan for Goondi Bend with the focus on improving playing surface and support infrastructure for a range of sports

3. A Master Plan or shared vision for development should be prepared for the Pease Park/ PCYC/ Golf Course precinct.

Undertaking master plans or development plans allows for strategic investment in facilities and for multiple user groups to develop a shared vision for a facility. It also avoids isolated decision making which damages a site’s ability to meet needs in an efficient and sustainable way. In a tight economy, with high competition for Council and community funds, the best social and economic return can be gained from investing in existing facilities, improving their ability to operate at a higher level of provision and to host multiple uses/ users.

S

M

M

2.2.2 Undertake planning and upgrades to improve capacity of existing facilities

1. Plan for further upgrade of Frogs Hollow field and support facilities when demand from local sporting groups is sufficient.

2. Improve the drainage of Castor Park to better support sporting use

3. Work with the local community to adopt a plan for the Cardwell Sports reserve that considers improving shade, increasing access to facilities for informal and formal activities and eventual replacement of ageing buildings.

A number of facilities are constrained by existing issues such as flooding or inadequate design for shared use.

Council should focus on ensuring existing facilities are used to capacity before investing in new facilities.

Where possible ageing buildings that are becoming less sustainable to maintain should be replaced with a single multi-use buildings. This is particularly important in the smaller communities where populations cannot support multiple single use facilities.

M

S

S

2.2.3 Implement Master Plans that have been adopted by Council

1. Review the masterplan for Rotary Park at Wongaling in view of the proposal for a water themed playground to be developed there.

2. Implement the master plan for the Tully Showgrounds as funds permit.

The previously prepared master plan for Rotary Park can provide a basis for review and it is important that no development takes place without an overall plan for the parks development and management.

Council has recently completed a new master plan for the showgrounds but the range of works is beyond current

S

M




FRAME

3. Undertake annual reviews of progress on implementaiton and every 5 years a full review of priorities.

4.

budgets. Council should be ready to access any external funding opportunities .

O

2.2.4 Develop a Boat ramps strategy in partnership with State Government

1. The results of the recent review undertaken by the department should be examined and a specific strategy developed for CCRC.

2. A list of desired works should be developed and lobbying continue with the state for investment in boat acces facilities.

3. Council should document all ramps and the current level of responsibility for maintenance and repair that they retain.

In order to confirm responsibilities between Council and the Department a program of works that identifies all requirements for the boat ramps should be compiled and costed. The priorities for the works should be determined following negotiation with the Department and allocation of funding.

A number of issues with safety from certain weather conditions and crocodiles still exist in the region.

M

2.2.5 Establish a strategic approach to investing in new or upgraded facilities

1. As part of finalising a sport and recreation policy framework council should adopt a priority assessment protocol that looks to build on existing plans and facilities.

2. Ensure that all new projects supported by council are sustainable. Key tests are:

Financially viable in regard to operating costs

Realistic assessment of potential use and planned around long term use

Able to respond to changing demands and preferences in the community

Environmentally responsible

3. As part of finalising a sport and recreation policy framework council should adopt a priority assessment protocol that looks to build on existing plans and facilities.

Council should resist the urge to expand provision except where an objective feasibility and needs assessment has demonstrated the value of the investment and that the ongoing operational implications can be supported.

For the next five or more years the focus needs to be on consolidation, rationalisation, improving utilisation of existing facilities and spaces before expanding or developing more.

S

O

S

2.2.6 Develop the pool

at Mission Beach 1. Commence the search for

external funding support to implement the preferred concept for Mission Beach Pool (at MARCS Park).

2. Continue to budget for this

Feasibility and planning work has

been undertaken and reviewed with

consistent support for the

development of the facility and the

most feasible location being MARCS

S




FRAME

project as a high priority.

3. When external funds are secured finalise the preferred design and construct a new facility that provides the best outcome for the community and the most sustainable operating model for council.

park.

Council has committed to

implementation and has concept

plans to support funding applications.

2.2.7 Additional land for

sport at Mission Beach 4. Investigate opportunities and

mechanisms for the acquisition and eventual development of a new 5Ha sporting precinct to service the Mission Beach/ Wongaling/ Carmoo area.

5. Proceeding with acquisition will be driven by population growth in the area.

6. Funding mechanisms may need to be reviewed following the state governments review of infrastructure funding.

Shortage of sporting land has been

documented in previous studies.

Combined with the issue of current

supply being restricted to single fields

in 3 separate locations there is a

strong argument to plan ahead with

the development of a sports area able

to accommodate 2 fields.

A site should be identified now and

plans be ready if opportunities arise to

acquire as part of a development or

otherwise.

M

2.2.8 Support the continued planning for the development of an integrated motor sports facility at Tully

1. Council should continue to support the development of site planning and feasibility for the proposed motorsports facility.

2. Have planning and feasibility work ready to take advantage of funding opportunities.

Council has already indicated their

support for this initiative.

The development of this facility can

support the development of the

adventure tourism as discussed in

2.1.2.

S-M

2.2.9 Development of a youth space strategy

1. In the short term options for development of a youth space in El Arish should be explored with the community.

2. Council should consider the development of a youth space strategy that identifies the areas of need and the options for responding that are commensurate with councils resources and the resources and partnerships available in the local community.

El Arish community have raised the

need for youth facilities. Consider the

development of a local skate park,

“street plaza” or jump park at the

location of the old BMX track. The

site chosen needs to be visible to the

local community (casual surveillance)

and located with other community/

sport & recreation facilities to reduce

the maintenance burden for Council.

The provision of opportunities for

young people will continue to be an

issue and a planned approach that

looks to build on existing facilities

while providing some diversity

between townships should be

considered.

S

M



2.3. MANAGEMENT AND PROGRAMS


FRAME

2.3.1 Resourcing sport and recreation within council

1. Consider employment of a dedicated sport and recreation officer to implement planning and work with community groups to access external support for facility and program development.

2. Establish a resource and facility data bases linked to GIS. This should be pursued when the open space inventory task is being undertaken.

There are no dedicated staff resources focused on the delivery of the CCRC Sport & Recreation Plan and pursuing implementation of master plans and other facility plans. The evidence from other councils is that a dedicated position is able to build partnerships and capacity in community groups to access a range of external; opportunities for facility and program development. Having a dedicated position allows council to be more strategic in leveraging their limited investment capital. Developing and maintaining a record of the existing facility and land resources managed by council and those managed by other agencies is an essential tool in maximising use of existing facilities and ensuring that any new demands are first met where there is available capacity before any planning for a new facility.

O S

2.3.2 Ensuring facilities are managed to maximise community benefit

1. Review the current usage and availability of the Tully MPC in response to community concerns it is not made available to community groups in the spirit of the original shared provision agreement.

Concerns have been raised that the management (by the school ) of the facility is not consistent with the intended agreement and does not recognise the level of investment from Council and Sport and Recreation Services (NPRSR) which was specifically for community use. Development of an evidence base for discussions with Tully High, Sport and Recreation Services (NPRSR) and Education Queensland regarding the management of the facility is recommended to ensure that any review of management arrangements can be productive

S

2.3.3 Facility planning and improvement funding scheme

1. As recommended in 2.1 council should adopt a policy framework and objective criteria to guide support for facility improvements

Funding and in kind support should be linked to policy objectives such as:

Support for priority facility development,

Meeting needs of an ageing population,

Improving physical activity opportunities

Improving multiple use or shared use

Making facilities more sustainable.

M




FRAME

Linkage to other council supported strategies.

2.3.4 Program or activity and event Funding support for sport and recreation organisations is based on a policy framework and revised with each year’s review of the Council’s operational plan and budget.

1. Adopt criteria to assist Council in determining priorities for financial or in-kind support for activities and events.

2. Consider linking a specific budget to priority policy targets such as increasing levels of physical activity, or developing adventure recreation opportunities.

As there are limited financial and in-kind (or sponsorship) resources a process for assessing applications is essential. Consideration of the following factors should be included:

a) The leverage or enhancement of council’s support with multiple funding sources (including contribution from the applicant)

b) Proposals are consistent with organisational or development plans fo the proponent.

c) Likelihood of increasing the carrying capacity of existing areas or consolidating use of existing facilities

d) Proposal addresses risk management/ Australian Standards issues

e) Capacity for benefiting multiple user groups

f) Proposal addresses critical health issues or emerging trends (eg safety, shade, lighting)

g) Likelihood of the proposed development increasing participation

h) Proposed event or activity will have a long term benefit in terms of repeat activity or growth in participation

i) Consistency with the CCRC Sport and Recreation Plan

M

2.3.5 Development of an Active and Healthy Program for the region.

1. Investigate opportunities for external funding to complete a plan (NPRSR, Qld Health , Federal Health)

2. Engage with older adults and other target groups in the community to determine/ identify the activities/ facilities that they currently use and those they would like to use in order to increase / enhance their participation in sport and recreation activities.

3. Identify opportunities for partnership between Council

There is considerable evidence of the benefits of active and healthy communities and the growing need for program and opportunities in regional communities.

Participation programs developed in conjunction with community sport & recreation organisations can improve the profile of activities and participation rates within the community.

In some cases exposure to activities and a social environment to try new things will have lasting effects on an individual’s activity rates.

The program should also consider low

M




FRAME

and community groups to develop and facilitate regular and appropriate activities programs for (older) adults and other target groups.

cost opportunities that make existing facilities more accessible (such as signage on bikeways and pathways).

Consideration should be given to activities that are appropriate and non-stereotypical include for older adults include walking groups (for pleasure and bush walking), aqua aerobics



3. INTRODUCTION

3.1. STUDY PURPOSE

Cassowary Coast Regional Council covers a large area and services several communities. The Council was

formed by amalgamation of Johnstone and Cardwell Shires in 2009. While both Shires had sport and

recreation plans in place at the time of amalgamation, these plans are now reaching the end of their life and

a review of planning is critical to reflect the changed circumstances of the amalgamated Council and its

communities.

Council has a number of smaller townships and the history of facility provision across the new Council area

is such that there are still priorities that are as yet unmet due to capital and operating cost constraints. In

addition, the legacy of existing infrastructure includes numerous ageing facilities and an increasing cost

burden associated with existing assets.

The development of a revised Sport & Recreation Plan for the new Council area has been based on a review

and update of the policies and priorities within the existing plans as well as an updated assessment of

demographic and participation trends.

Council has indicated that minimal consultation is required in the review of the existing situation and as such

a targeted approach has been followed that helps to detail current utilisation of sport and recreation facilities

while also allowing for the identification of any emerging issues.

The organisational context within which this plan is developed dictates that the recommendations reflect the

resources and capacity of Council, set realistic objectives and aim for sustainable implementation.

The purpose of this project as outlined in the Council’s brief was to:

Review the previously developed plans for currency and terminology and combine the two into a new

shire wide CCRC Sports and Recreation Plan. This project will be a synthesis of current reports with

limited public consultation to be undertaken.

The objectives of the project were as follows:

Combine and update previously developed sport and recreation planning documents.

Provide recommendations on future development of sport and recreation planning elements.

Revision of Sport and Recreation infrastructure in regards to Level of Service provisions and

technical standards.



Dire

ctio

n In

vest

igat

ion

Stage 2: Detailed Investigation Audits and inventories

Site reviews Demographic investigations

Comparative analysis Existing proposals Demand analysis

Issues analysis

Stage 4: Report Development Draft Report preparation Feedback on Draft report

Final Plan

Stage 1: Inception and Background Research Confirm Study Program

Collate Existing Information Background Research

Stage 3: Information Analysis Analysis of research

Identify priority issues Investigate options

Determine Strategic Directions

Det

erm

inat

ion

3.2. METHODOLOGY

The methodology comprised a four stage process as outlined at Figure 1 below.

Figure 1: Plan review and development process – Cassowary Coast Sport & Recreation Plan



3.3. OVERVIEW

Cassowary Coast Regional Council area is 4,701 sq km, located between Cairns and Tablelands Regional

Councils and Hinchinbrook Shire Council, in Far North Queensland. The economy of the area is primarily

focused on agriculture (bananas and sugar) and tourism. In 2008 the Queensland Government finalised

widespread local government reform with a number of Council amalgamations, reducing the number of local

governments in the state from 157 to 73. Cassowary Coast Regional Council was formed by the

amalgamation of Johnstone and Cardwell Shires.

The Cassowary Coast Region was named after the tall, flightless bird which inhabits the area. The

environment of the Cassowary Coast region is characterised as tropical rainforest and is one of the wettest

and greenest in Australia. The climate is tropical with very high rainfall and high humidity. The North &

South Johnstone and Tully Rivers are the primary river systems in the region and are fed by numerous

creeks and streams. Approximately 70% of the region contains national parks and world heritage

conservation areas (Wet Tropics rainforest). The region offers the closest mainland access to the Great

Barrier Reef and numerous offshore islands.

Main communities of the region are Innisfail (34% of the region’s population and the main centre), Tully and

the coastal communities of Cardwell, Mission Beach/ Wongaling/ Bingil Bay.

The Council has completed the priority amalgamation actions and is currently focused on updating and

revising a suite of strategic and functional planning documents and tools.



4. BACKGROUND RESEARCH

4.1. LITERATURE REVIEW

A range of documents were reviewed as part of the background research to set the plan in context and to

ensure outcomes are aligned with Council’s corporate direction. Findings and recommendations seen as

relevant to the Cassowary Coast Sport & Recreation Plan are summarised in the Table 3 below.

Some of the key issues to emerge from this analysis are as follows:

1. The Cassowary Coast Regional Council Corporate Plan 2013-2017 describes the vision for the

Cassowary Coast region to retain its unique tropical lifestyle, values exceptional natural

environment and creates a balanced, sustainable economy for future generations.

2. The Sport and Recreation Facilities Study was completed for the former Johnstone Shire in 1999,

while it identified few “burning issues”, this study identified a number of short, medium and long

term recommendations which should guide sport and recreation planning over the decade to 2010.

Of primary note were facility needs for informal, non-organised recreation, including opportunities

for young people; specific facility improvements and mechanisms to support and improve the

functioning of local organisations.

3. The Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan was completed for the former Cardwell Shire in 2007

to review, update and extend the background research contained within Council’s existing Sport

and Recreation Facilities Plan and to formulate a shire wide strategic Sport and Recreation Plan to

2011. Recommendations focused on community needs in relation to accessibility and comfort in

the use of Council’s parks, the popularity of the foreshore and boating activities; development of

new and upgrading of existing facilities.

4. The Public Parks Plan for Trunk Infrastructure – Old Johnstone Shire PIA was completed for

Cassowary Coast Regional Council in 2008. This work fulfilled a recommendation of the 1999

Johnstone Shire Sport and Recreation Facilities Study. This plan was used in the formulation of

the Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s Priority Infrastructure Plan which commenced in October

20121.

5. The Cassowary Coast Regional Council Priority Infrastructure Plan came into force on 12 October

2012. The PIP was informed by the Public Parks Plan for Trunk Infrastructure – Old Johnstone

Shire PIA and includes priorities for public park and recreation land improvements through to 2026.

6. The Cassowary Coast Community Plan 2011-2021 was the region’s first community plan and was

completed following the amalgamation and prior to the current Corporate Plan (see 1. above). The

completion of Community Plans by local government was a feature of the Local Government Act

2009; to provide a participative planning process for the community and Council to derive a long-

term vision.

7. The Cassowary Coast Regional Council - Mission Beach Pool Feasibility study fulfils a

recommendation from the Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan for the former Cardwell Shire in

1 The CCRC web-site indicates that the Priority Infrastructure Plan was released in October 2012. The document is published without a date.



2007 identifying the various factors relevant to the concept design and provision of a public aquatic

facility in Mission Beach.

8. The Tully Showgrounds redevelopment plan is currently (July 2012) in the stage of seeking

community input in order that Council can investigate the options to improve the functionality of the

showgrounds and look at new ways for the area to be used in order to reflect the changing needs

of the community. One of the requirements of this sport & recreation plan is to consider and

recommend on the regional significance of this facility; to further inform the detailed planning and

design of the restoration. One of the drivers for this process is the damage sustained by the

Showgrounds in TC Yasi in 2011.

9. Mission Beach Petanque Club proposal to establish a playing venue in Mission Beach.

10. Feasibility investigation for a Dirt Bike Riding Facility.

Table 3: Strategic context emerging from background literature

ISSUE/ STRATEGY RELEVANT TO SPORT AND RECREATION PLAN SOURCE

The Corporate Plan 2013-2017 is a key planning document that sets the direction for the Cassowary Coast community and Regional Council’s decision-making for the next five years.

One of the key focus areas of the Plan is in the area of “Diverse thriving economy” which outlines the regions’ economic growth objectives and challenges, particularly enabling infrastructure to support and attract growth.

Another of the key focus areas of the Plan is in the area of “Strong social fabric” which identifies the importance of effective partnering with the community; the opportunities provided through reconciliation and closing the gap and the challenge of an ageing community. This focus area has the objectives of developing a Sport, Recreation & Open Space Plan for the region which ‘strengthens social fabric’; promoting the active use of recreational infrastructure and services and working with sporting and recreation clubs to increase participation; and providing the community with parks, reserves and sporting facilities that meet identified needs; partnering with traditional owners and/or government agencies to develop opportunities that enhance wider participation of indigenous people in community life.

Another of the key focus areas of the Plan is in the area of “Unique natural environment” which aims for effective partnering to ensure a balance between lifestyle expectations and conservation of natural values; managing the region’s coastline to sustain amenity, accessibility and biodiversity.

Another of the key focus areas of the Plan is in the area of “Liveable built environment” which includes challenges of ageing infrastructure; community infrastructure service levels; building diverse public spaces. Objectives to meet these challenges include innovation in the provision and management of sustainable community infrastructure; provision of community facilities that meet the needs of a changing community and serve multiple uses; appropriate provision of marine facilities to meet the boating needs; application of disaster mitigation and sustainability principles to maintenance and delivery of Council’s assets; cross local government boundary collaboration on the delivery of essential regional infrastructure; provision, management and enhancement of the region’s recreational facilities, parks sporting fields open spaces and foreshores for varying types of sporting and recreational activities; safe public spaces accessible of all community members regardless of age and ability; use of masterplanning process to guide long-term staged delivery of significant public spaces and vibrant community infrastructure; provision of a network of linked, shared cycle and pedestrian-friendly pathways with supportive infrastructure for commuter and recreational use. .

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Corporate Plan 2013-2017




Effective asset management planning is one of the tools of the Council to ensure a “Customer focused organisation”. Improving asset management is important to ensure the cost effective management and maintenance of Council’s sport and recreation assets in order that they provide value to the community. The Sport and Recreation Plan will provide input to the Council’s asset management planning; to the Priority Infrastructure Plan and the Ten-Year Capital Works Program for Council’s assets.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Corporate Plan 2013-2017 (cont’d)

The Sport and Recreation Facilities Study was completed for the former Johnstone Shire in 1999. The provision of organised sport and recreation facilities in the Shire has generally addressed the needs of dispersed communities and organisations quite effectively.

Considerable effort has gone into establishing policy and assessing needs. The development of policy in conjunction with the community is to be commended and in most areas the policy framework is still valid.

While there are relatively few “burning issues”, this study has identified a number of short, medium and long term recommendations which should guide sport and recreation planning over the next decade.

The key needs to emerge from the study were:

Facilities for informal, non-organised recreation (e.g. river access, bikeways/ pathways, cinema);

An emphasis on informal recreation opportunities for young people and involving them in the planning process;

Improvements such as drainage, lighting, car parking at some facilities (in particular Goondi Bend and Centenary Park);

Improved communication mechanisms with sport, recreation and cultural organisations;

Better access by clubs to advice on administration, coaching, business planning

Integrated planning with Cardwell Shire

Management structures for Callendar Park and MARCS Park

Johnstone Shire Council – Sport and Recreation Facilities Study (Dec 1999)

The Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan was completed for the former Cardwell Shire in 2007 to review, update and extend the background research contained within Council’s existing Sport and Recreation Facilities Plan and to formulate a shire wide strategic Sport and Recreation Plan to 2011.

The key findings to emerge from the study were:

The region’s high rain fall has a significant impact on participation in sport and recreation and demand for all weather structures is high

Foreshore parks are by far the most popular parks in the Shire

About one in four residents feel that parks could be improved in terms of maintenance/ cleanliness

There may be some potential for investment in sport/ recreation tourism in Cardwell Shire but this requires further investigation

Improving opportunities for young people is a priority for many residents

Destination parks at State Forests are popular, in particular Alligators Nest, but there is a concern about removal of facilities at this location

Boating is popular throughout the Shire and the ongoing program of improvement to boat ramps should be continued

There are a number of issues/ demands in each of the key population centres

Key observations relating to Mission Beach include:

o Frustration about the lack of action on the development of an aquatic facility and continuing demand. There is a need to resolve the capital and operational funding requirements, facility mix, site

Cardwell Shire Council – Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan (July 2007)




location, and management arrangements for this facility

o The Rotary Park Master Plan will address some of the demands raised in the consultation process and if implemented would be an improved resource for local residents and the Shire as a whole

o Demand for more walk/ cycle paths

o Sportsfields in both Cardwell and Johnstone Shires are inadequate to meet current and future needs

o Climate control for South Mission Community Hall is lacking

o Demand for outdoor meeting/ performance space

Key observations relating to Tully are:

o Lack of a feature district park and playground

o Tully Multi-purpose Centre will address some of the needs identified in the consultation process

o There is a need to upgrade amenities at the Showgrounds, especially grandstands, and Master Plan has incorporated improvements

o An opportunity exists to create a cultural precinct

o Demand for youth activities and programs

o Viability of Tully Country Club

Key observations relating to Cardwell are as follows:

o Underutilisation of Cardwell Sports Reserve

o Demand for youth programming activities

o Cardwell Foreshore Master Plan will provide improved recreation opportunities for local residents and Shire as a whole

Issues/ demands in smaller population centres were generally less prevalent.

Cardwell Shire Council – Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan (July 2007)

(cont’d)

The Public Parks Plan for Trunk Infrastructure – Old Johnstone Shire PIA was completed for Cassowary Coast Regional Council in 2008. This work fulfilled a recommendation of the 1999 Johnstone Shire Sport and Recreation Facilities Study.

This plan proposed a draft standard of service for land for public parks; analysed the existing supply of parks and open space against the classification hierarchy and compared this inventory data to determine the on-ground outcomes and standards.

Minimum levels of supply were determined for the primary urban settings evident within the region and performance criteria and preferred levels of development applied to the various park types in the classification hierarchy.

Projected population growth was used to identify the future needs for additional parks and open space within the population centres/ catchments across the region.

Cassowary Coast RC – Public Parks Plan for Trunk Infrastructure – Old Johnstone Shire PIA (Aug 2008)

The Cassowary Coast Regional Council Priority Infrastructure Plan is prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 and is subordinate to the Johnstone and Cardwell Planning Schemes and references the former shires. On 27 September 2012, the Council adopted amendments to the Johnstone Shire Planning Scheme 2005 and the Cardwell Shire Planning Scheme 2007 to include the Priority Infrastructure Plan, which commenced on 12 October 2012.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Priority Infrastructure Plan 2

The Liveable Cassowary Coast Whole of Community Plan 2020 was the Council’s first community plan and provides a framework for Council to set future direction, guide strategic planning and determine resource allocation

Liveable Cassowary Coast Whole of Community Plan 2020

2 The CCRC web-site indicates that the Priority Infrastructure Plan was released in October 2012. The document is published without a date.




priorities. The 10-year plan was adopted by Council on 15 December 2011 after extensive community engagement.

This plan outlines four Vision Outcomes for the Council and community.

The plan identifies five precincts within the region that reflect the diversity of the region and form the basis of precinct planning. The five precincts are Innisfail, Mission Beach, Tully, Jumbun, Cardwell.

Three of the four aspirations contained in the Community Plan are - Green Sustainable Environments, Social and Cultural Wellbeing and Community Leadership.

The community assets that are valued by residents include “lifestyle and recreation – opportunities for outdoor activities, low cost family environments”. Consultation completed as part of the development of the Community Plan produced evidence of the community’s commitment/ desire to progress “the region in a manner that ensures natural assets and lifestyles are preserved”

Liveable Cassowary Coast Whole of Community Plan 2020

(cont’d)

The recommendation to undertake an independent review and update of the feasibility study undertaken by Mission Beach Aquatic and Recreation Club (MBARC) in 2004 was included in the Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan completed for the former Cardwell Shire in 2007 in response to community frustration at the lack of a decision or direction relating to an aquatic facility for the Mission Beach community. The recommendation outlined that the feasibility study consider capital and operational funding requirements, facility mix, site location, and management arrangements for a proposed aquatic facility.

This feasibility study has recently been completed and recommends an aquatic facility at MARCS Park with the following components :

·Lap pool 25m

·Leisure pool

·Future Hydrotherapy pool

·Consideration of a covered space for “dry” programs and community activities

·Entrance with administration and kiosk

Potential other recreation facilities which may expand pay to use options

Mission Beach Pool Feasibility study (revision 2013)

The Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan completed for the former Cardwell Shire in 2007 included a draft Master Plan for the Tully Showgrounds precinct, with associated recommendation to seek community and user group feedback; and following finalisation to seek external funding support for its progressive implementation.

The Tully Showgrounds is the venue for one of Queensland's most successful shows, and the current home to touch football, junior and senior rugby league, the kennel club, gem society, gym club and other community groups. In talking to members of the Tully community, there is also a desire for other possible uses for the site including camp drafts, rodeo and drive-in movies.

The showgrounds suffered considerable damage from TC Yasi (2011) and before seeking funds for further repairs and development, Council has been preparing a plan for the long term growth of the showgrounds to reflect the desires of the community. As part of the preparation of a revised concept plan for the long term development of the showgrounds, Council has been seeking community views on the long-term use and management of the Showgrounds, with the aim of improving the functionality of the showgrounds and to consider new ways for the area to be used in order to reflect the changing needs of the community.

Themes identified by the community so far:

Modernise buildings and amenities;

Improve maintenance of buildings and amenities;

Tully Showgrounds redevelopment plan (in progress)




Improve disability access to grounds, buildings and amenities;

Facilities and amenities need to accommodate parents with babies;

Remove the fence around the showground ring;

Upgrade the existing grandstand or build a new facility;

Provide more covered seating closer to the football fields;

Improve horse stalls and livestock pavilions;

Improve lighting;

Upgrade access roads, car parks and pathways; and

Improve the entrance to the showgrounds.

Community members have also identified the opportunity for the Tully Showgrounds to accommodate a number of other activities including live music, amphitheatre, markets, lifestyle and fishing expos, craft shows, art performances and workshops, go-cart track, and a playground for children.3

Concept architectural drawings have been completed for a new multi-purpose building with grandstand to be located adjacent to the main football field.

Tully Showgrounds redevelopment plan (in progress) 2013 (cont’d)

Mission Beach Petanque Club proposal to establish playing venue in Mission Beach.

Of three options considered and presented, the option to develop a facility and hold activities in the esplanade (Marine Parade) area east of Day Park is the preferred.

The club was formed in September 2012.

Mission Beach Petanque Club Mission and vision statement (September 2012)

Cassowary Coast Regional Council considered and approved a proposal from council officers to investigate in detail the feasibility of a “centralised Dirt Bike Riding Facility for the Cassowary Coast Region”; at a site identified on Dallachy Rd (south of Tully). The Council decision marks the beginning of the strategic planning for the facility in conjunction with relevant stakeholders.

The Cardwell Shire Council – Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan (July 2007) had an overarching recommendation to investigate the potential for the Cassowary Coast (specific focus on Tully) region to host regular major events in non-mainstream/ adventure sports such as motocross, rafting, skydiving. The investigation to cover aspects of event selection/ tendering; logistics associated with hosting (numbers of possible participants, accommodation); hosting responsibilities and capabilities of the clubs and facilities in Tully; and the tourism and economic benefits to the region.

Action Item - Council Meeting – Dirt Bike Facility

3 Source: http://haveyoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/tullyshowground; Cassowary Coast RC website – Have Your Say – posted July 2012;

http://haveyoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/tullyshowground



5. POPULATION ANALYSIS

5.1. CURRENT POPULATION

The 2011 census data for the Cassowary Coast Regional Council area shows that the 2011 population was

30,132. This represents a decrease of 1.0% in the period since the 2006 Census and an average annual

decline of 0.4% since the 2001 Census, an overall decrease of 4%.

Table 4 shows the population breakdown by age within the Cassowary Coast Regional Council area over the

last three censuses.

Table 4: Population breakdown by age (2011 ABS Census)

Census Year 2001 2006 2011

Age Range Persons %of total Persons %of total Persons %of total

0-4 years 2,022 6% 1,728 6% 1,772 6%

5-9 years 2,332 7% 2,049 7% 1,791 6%

10-14 years 2,307 7% 2,244 7% 1,959 7%

15-19 years 1,848 6% 1,774 6% 1,738 6%

20-24 years 1,455 5% 1,321 4% 1,384 5%

25-29 years 1,693 5% 1,345 4% 1,475 5%

30-34 years 1,971 6% 1,697 6% 1,402 5%

35-39 years 2,255 7% 1,932 6% 1,670 6%

40-44 years 2,371 8% 2,245 7% 1,929 6%

45-49 years 2,071 7% 2,404 8% 2,130 7%

50-54 years 1,960 6% 2,180 7% 2,358 8%

55-59 years 1,801 6% 2,153 7% 2,232 7%

60-64 years 1,699 5% 1,835 6% 2,155 7%

65-69 years 1,506 5% 1,593 5% 1,944 6%

70-74 years 1,193 4% 1,124 4% 1,424 5%

75-79 years 841 3% 894 3% 969 3%

80-84 years 454 1% 593 2% 662 2%

85 years and over 366 1% 389 1% 484 2%

Overseas visitors 1,252 4% 787 3% 654 2%

Total 31,397 100% 30,287 100% 30,132 100%

Population figures examined for the 1990’s show slight increases between 1991 and 2001. The projections

to 2031 (medium series) show this decline turning to growth.

Table 5 shows the projections of population by age from 2016 to 2031.



5.2. PROJECTED POPULATION

Projections prepared by the Office of Economic and Statistical Research, Queensland Treasury and Trade

indicate that the population of Cassowary Coast Regional Council area will be between 32,695 and 38,154

by 20314. Adopting medium series OESR population projections the projected populations by locality for

2021 and 2031 are set out in Table 7. The population is expected to grow by 16% overall between 2011 and

2031 or an annual average growth rate of 0.8%. Of these four periods, the greatest rate of growth/ change

is expected in the period to 2016 of 7%. Shaded areas of Table 5 indicate those age ranges that are

projected to increase the most (compared with other age cohorts).

Comparing these expected growth rates with the Cairns statistical division indicates that they are less than

half. The Cairns statistical division is projected to grow by 34.3% between 2011 and 2031, or an annual

average growth rate of 1.7%.

Table 5: Population projections by age (medium series)

Census Year 2016 2021 2026 2031

Age Range Persons Persons Persons Persons

0-4 years 1,736 1,746 1,754 1,724

5-9 years 1,939 1,840 1,856 1,875

10-14 years 1,940 1,974 1,893 1,920

15-19 years 1,869 1,672 1,699 1,658

20-24 years 1,861 1,713 1,550 1,577

25-29 years 1,761 1,768 1,664 1,519

30-34 years 1,598 1,758 1,760 1,683

35-39 years 1,593 1,665 1,814 1,824

40-44 years 1,938 1,651 1,726 1,886

45-49 years 2,172 2,033 1,754 1,839

50-54 years 2,550 2,316 2,187 1,913

55-59 years 2,749 2,698 2,468 2,354

60-64 years 2,323 2,781 2,744 2,533

65-69 years 2,030 2,370 2,842 2,827

70-74 years 1,535 1,894 2,220 2,678

75-79 years 1,136 1,366 1,699 2,010

80-84 years 774 969 1,178 1,478

85 years and over 803 989 1,237 1,545

Total 32,307 33,203 34,045 34,843

4. (Projections) Queensland Government population projections (medium series), 2011 edition, Office of Economic and Statistical Research, Queensland Treasury and Trade. (ERP) ABS, unpublished data.



Table 6: Past, current and projected population

2001 Pop’n

2011 Pop’n

Change

2001-11

Est’d 2016

Pop’n

Change 2011-16

Est’d 2026

Pop’n

Change 2016-26

Est’d 2031

Pop’n

Change 2026-31

31397 30132 -1265 32307 +2175 34045 +1738 34843 +798

Figure 2: Population change 1996 to 2031 (projected)5

Table 7: Population projections by locality (medium series)

Locality Population Projection in each Census year

2016 2021 2026 2031

Innisfail 10,468 10,881 11,242 11,601

Johnstone 8,657 8,721 8,827 8,933

Tully 12,106 12,519 12,900 13,231

Correction6 1,076 1,077 1,076 1,079

Total 32,307 33,198 34,045 34,843

5 (Projections) Queensland Government population projections (low and medium series), 2011 edition, Office of Economic and Statistical Research, Queensland Treasury and Trade. (ERP) ABS, unpublished data. 6 Correction – included to account for minor statistical differences between ABS statistical areas and local government boundaries (immaterial)

24000

26000

28000

30000

32000

34000

36000

1996 2001 2006 2011 2016 2021 2026 2031

Medium Series

Low Series



5.3. AGE

The median age of Cassowary Coast Regional Council area’s population in 2011 was 44 years, an increase

of 6 years (from 38 years) in the period since 2001. This is expected to increase by 5.8 years to a median

age of 49.8 by 2031. This is higher than the median age of Queensland, which is expected to be 40.2 in

20317.

The age distribution of the population (in 2011) compared with the rest of Queensland shows that

Cassowary Coast has a similar percentage of its total population aged 0-14yrs as the rest of the state (19%

compared with 20% for the state) and a greater percentage of its population aged 65yrs and over (16%

compared with 13% for the state)8. The shaded areas of Table 5 also demonstrate this ageing f\of the

population of the region.

5.4. SUMMARY OF KEY DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS

Cassowary Coast has a population that has fluctuated over recent years, with increases and

declines over the last 20 years, with the estimated population in 2011 of 30,132 people

The Cassowary Coast population is expected to grow to 34,843 by 2031 (medium series

projections)

The Cassowary Coast population is ageing with the median age expected to increase to 49.8 years

by 2031

The proportion of the region’s population that identifies as Indigenous is 9%

In the 2011 Census in excess of 26 languages (other than English) were identified as spoken by 8%

the population of Cassowary Coast that indicated a language other than English is spoken at home

Across the three Census collections (2001 – 2011), the population born outside Australia shows that

the top three countries/regions are UK, Italy and New Zealand. In 2011 Italy was overtaken by

India.

5.5. POSSIBLE IMPLICATIONS FOR SPORT AND

RECREATION PLANNING

Population projections that indicate slow growth/ decline/ static populations will mean that Council should not

be under significant pressure to acquire or develop additional land and/ or facilities for sport and recreation.

Except for those areas where an undersupply exists already. Council’s priorities should be on consolidating

and maintaining the current level of provision and ensuring community groups and clubs are supported to

deliver community level sport and recreation opportunities.

The changing nature of the region’s demography, particularly that the population is ageing points to a period

of change in the nature of sport and recreation demand. Engaging with older adults in the communities of

the Cassowary Coast will help identify the activities/ facilities that they currently use and those they would

like to use in order to increase / enhance their participation in sport and recreation activities.

7 Queensland Government population projections to 2031: local government areas 2011 edition (based on 2008 ASGC), Office of Economic and Statistical Research, Queensland Treasury and Trade. 8 Age and gender indicators by local government area (LGA), Queensland, 30 June 2011pr (a), Office of Economic and Statistical Research, Queensland Treasury and Trade.



Future provision planning should give consideration to activities that are increasingly popular with older

adults including walking (for pleasure and bush walking), swimming, cycling and fitness programs such as

aqua aerobics.



6. TREND ANALYSIS

6.1. TRENDS INFLUENCING SPORT AND RECREATION

PARTICIPATION

Strategic Leisure, through studies undertaken for various local governments and ABS research into the

topic, has identified a number of trends that are influencing participation in sport and recreation activities.

These include:

6.1.1. GENERAL TRENDS AND OBSERVATIONS ON SPORT AND

RECREATION PARTICIPATION

The following general trends influencing the use of sport and recreation facilities and parks are evident:

Changing patterns of work and declining availability of “uncommitted time” is changing patterns of

participation in sport and recreation

For many, the leisure experience is one of limited time availability with an expectation of “instant

gratification”. This is evidenced by a desire for participants to “turn up and play” where minimal

extra commitments are involved. In many cases the participants are willing to pay extra for this

service which has created some opportunities for commercial provision.

Participation in organised sport is generally static but there is growing demand for social forms of

participation in sport.

There is a greater demand for floodlighting of facilities so that people can participate at times that

are convenient to them or (especially in sub-tropical or tropical climates) to reduce exposure to the

sun.

Volunteerism is declining in many sport and recreation organisations. This is placing greater

pressure on the remaining volunteer base and may impact on participation levels and/ or costs in

future if services that were once provided voluntarily need to be paid for.

Availability and/ or cost of insurance have impacted on clubs in recent years.

Declining volunteerism is also placing greater pressure on Councils in terms of the way they

manage sports facilities on their land.

Local governments are recognising the importance of creating environments to enable people to

lead active and healthy lives, placing greater focus on the importance of the provision and/ or

connectivity of walk/ cycle paths, safety, urban design, services and programs (especially in areas

or populations with lower levels of engagement), and open space planning.

There is an awareness of the importance of "risk management" and the need for a “whole-of-life”

approach to facility development and asset management.

Walking is consistently identified as the most popular form of active recreation and walk/ cycle

paths are regularly at the forefront of public demands for recreation facilities.

People seek pathways that are safe, aesthetically pleasing, easily accessible, and well connected

to community amenities such as schools, shops, parks, sporting facilities and other pathway

networks.



6.1.2. TRENDS IN OUTDOOR RECREATION IN PARKS

The following trends in park planning are being observed

The development of community/ sport ‘precincts’ or hubs is becoming more prevalent.

The importance of kickabout space and other active elements for youth has increased with the

trend towards smaller lots and narrower streets in new residential developments.

Shade and water are considered essential for all types of parks.

Personal safety has become a paramount consideration and visibility of parks from surrounding

residences is considered essential. This does not extend to the use of “internal reserves” (parks

sharing a boundary with residences on nearly the whole perimeter). Visibility can be interpreted as

50% or more of the boundary having road frontage.

Linear park systems along creek lines are becoming more appreciated as they provide recreational

riding and walking networks. However widths of the corridor, facility provision, lighting and the level

of visibility (road frontage) are critical factors in what is seen as “good” design.

Linkages between residential areas and parks (and between parks), via a path/ cycle network is

seen as increasingly important.

Multi-purpose, multi-use and shared use park and sporting field developments are emerging

consistently in new park proposals and community perceptions have shifted to accept this

approach as desirable.

Communities expect to be consulted and are more vocal about park development/ redevelopment,

particularly where there is potential for noise or traffic impact caused by large spectator events or

regular sporting competitions, or residential impacts from night lighting associated with sporting

activities.

6.2. PARTICIPATION IN EXERCISE, RECREATION AND

SPORT

In 2011 the Standing Committee on Recreation and Sport ceased the funding and commissioning of the

ERASS statistical surveys. The replacement model was a new Committee of Australian Sport and

Recreation Officials (CASRO). Who funded the National Centre for Culture and Recreation Statistics

(NCCRS). The sampling methodology, sample sizes and aggregation of data has changed from the

previous ERASS model meaning that comparative analysis across years is more difficult. In addition the

shift sample size has meant the confidence levels have diminished considerably in many results- so they can

viewed as indicative only. The following section overviews the most recent data sets from NCCRS and then

reviews the last trends analysis arising from the more than 10 years of ERASS sampling.

6.2.1. LATEST NCCRS REPORT 20129

The Top 5 activities nationally are:

Walking (23.6%)

Fitness./ Gym (17.1%)

Swimming/ diving (7.8%)

9 41770DO001_201112 Participation in Sport and Physical Recreation, Australia, 2011-12



Cycling/ BMX (7.6%)

Jogging/ Running (7.5%)

Table 8 2012 participation in Sport and Recreation (ABS 2012- National Data)

ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION RATE (%)

Males Females Persons

Aerobics 0.0 0.9 0.5

Aqua aerobics 0.1 0.7 0.4

Athletics, track and field 0.5 0.3 0.4

Australian Rules football 2.5 0.2 1.3

Badminton 0.6 0.5 0.6

Basketball (indoor and outdoor) 2.8 1.2 2.0

Beach volleyball 0.1 0.1 0.1

Boxing 0.7 0.5 0.6

Bush walking 2.5 2.4 2.4

Canoeing/Kayaking 1.2 0.4 0.8

Carpet bowls 0.1 0.2 0.2

Cricket (indoor) 0.8 0.1 0.4

Cricket (outdoor) 3.0 0.1 1.6

Cross country running 0.7 0.3 0.5

Cycling/BMXing 9.8 5.4 7.6

Dancing/Ballet 0.3 2.5 1.4

Fishing 2.4 0.4 1.4

Fitness/Gym 15.1 19.1 17.1

Football sports 2.3 1.2 1.8

Golf 8.2 1.4 4.8

Gymnastics 0.3 0.3 0.3

Hockey (indoor and outdoor) 0.4 0.8 0.6

Horse riding/Equestrian activities/Polo 0.5 1.2 0.8

Ice/snow sports 1.0 0.5 0.8

Jogging/Running 8.7 6.4 7.5

Lawn bowls 1.8 1.0 1.4

Martial arts 1.6 1.2 1.4

Motor sports 0.8 0.0 0.4

Netball (indoor and outdoor) 0.4 4.5 2.5

Pilates 0.2 1.9 1.1

Rock climbing/Abseiling/Caving 0.4 0.2 0.3

Rowing 0.1 0.3 0.2

Rugby league 1.1 0.1 0.6

Rugby union 1.1 0.1 0.6

Sailing 0.7 0.1 0.4



ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION RATE (%)

Scuba diving/Snorkelling 0.6 0.1 0.4

Shooting sports 0.6 0.1 0.3

Skateboarding/Inline hockey/Roller sports 0.6 0.2 0.4

Soccer (indoor) 1.9 0.3 1.1

Soccer (outdoor) 4.1 1.3 2.7

Softball/Tee ball 0.1 0.3 0.2

Squash/Racquetball 1.4 0.4 0.9

Surf lifesaving 0.3 0.1 0.2

Surf sports 2.2 0.3 1.3

Swimming/Diving 7.5 8.0 7.8

Table tennis 0.5 0.2 0.3

Tennis (indoor and outdoor) 4.9 3.4 4.2

Tenpin bowling 0.4 0.3 0.4

Trail bike riding 0.7 0.1 0.4

Triathlons 0.3 0.2 0.3

Volleyball (indoor and outdoor) 0.6 0.5 0.6

Walking for exercise 16.5 30.4 23.6

Waterskiing/Powerboating 0.7 0.2 0.5

Weight lifting/Body building 0.8 0.1 0.4

Yoga 0.6 3.3 1.9

6.2.2. QUEENSLAND DATA

The 2012 ABS data tables only provide the top 10 activities for the state:

Table 9 Top 10 activities for Qld (2012 ABS) compared with Australia

Activity Qld % Aust%

Males

Walking for exercise 16.3 16.5

Fitness/Gym 15.3 15.1

Cycling/BMXing 9.3 9.8

Golf 7.2 8.2

Jogging/Running 6.6 8.7

Swimming/Diving 5.8 7.5

Soccer (outdoor) 4.3 4.1

Tennis (indoor and outdoor) 3.5 4.9

Bush walking 2.6 2.5

Netball (Indoor and outdoor)10 0.7 0.4

10 This estimate has a high RSE and is unreliable- it is expected that there is also a tabulation error here as it would be unlikely for netball participation to be higher (in males) than other football codes .



Activity Qld % Aust%

Females







Netball (indoor and outdoor) 2.9 4.5


Golf 1.6 1.4


Persons






Golf 4.4 4.8




Netball (Indoor and outdoor) 1.8 2.5

6.2.3. ERASS RESULTS AUSTRALIA WIDE

ERASS data11 presents the following key findings in relation to participation in exercise, recreation and sport

in Australia:

An estimated 8.3 million persons aged 15 years and over participated at least three times per

week (regular participation rate), on average, in physical activity. This equates to 47.7% of the

population and represents a 1.6% decrease from 2009.

While females participated in physical activity more regularly than males, males participated for a

longer duration.

The top ten exercise, recreation and sport activities most frequently participated in by Australians

aged 15 years and over are walking, aerobics/ fitness, swimming, cycling, running, golf, tennis,

bushwalking, outdoor football and netball.

o Participation in aerobics/ fitness increased the most (101% increase) between 2001 and

2010. Participation in walking, outdoor football, running, and cycling also increased by

large amounts.

11 Australian Sports Commission. Participation in Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey 2010. Annual Report 2011. Standing Committee on Recreation and Sport.



o Participation in tennis and swimming decreased (24% and 6% respectively) between

2001 and 2010.

38.5% of the population regularly participated in non-organised physical activity (at least 3 times a

week).

Females had higher regular participation rates in non-organised physical activity (41.5%) than

males (35.3%)

12.0% of the population regularly participated in organised physical activity (at least 3 times a

week)

The total participation rate in club-based physical activity was 25.7%, with a regular participation

rate (at least 3 times per week) of 6.3%

More men participated in regular club-based physical activity (7.9%) compared to women

compared to (4.8%).

The top ten club-based physical activities in 2009 were golf, outdoor football, netball, Australian

Rules football, tennis, outdoor cricket, lawn bowls, touch football, basketball and martial arts.

o Of these top ten activities only tennis (-13%) and golf (-1%) experienced a decline in

participation between 2001 and 2010.

o The largest increases in total participation between 2001 and 2010 were experienced by

Australian Rules football (+71%), outdoor football (+56%) and outdoor cricket (+49%).



Table 10: Top 20 Exercise, recreation & sport activities of Australians aged 15 years and older (by Age Cohorts) for 201012

ACTIVITY RANK TOTAL

PARTICIPATION

%

AGE GROUP

15-24

%

25-34

%

35-44

%

45-54

%

55-64

%

65 +

%

Walking (other than bushwalking) 1 35.9 10.6 28.2 35.6 45.6 50.5 47.8

Aerobics/ fitness 2 23.5 24.9 29.3 26.7 23.2 18.9 16.6

Swimming 3 13.0 11.5 15.0 16.4 15.6 11.9 7.0

Cycling 4 11.9 7.9 14.3 18.7 15.4 9.8 4.1

Running 5 10.6 14.4 17.6 15.9 8.6 3.7 1.3

Golf 6 6.7 1.8 5.5 7.1 7.6 9.5 9.4

Tennis 7 6.0 7.7 5.9 7.0 5.5 5.4 4.2

Football (outdoor) =8 4.8 16.1 5.3 4.3 1.9 0.3** 0.0**

Walking (bush) =8 4.8 1.3 3.5 6.3 7.6 6.7 3.8

Netball 10 3.7 10.7 6.7 3.1 1.2 0.2** 0.2**

Basketball =11 3.5 11.8 4.6 2.6 0.8* 0.4* 0.1**

Yoga =11 3.5 2.8 4.5 3.8 4.1 3.6 2.0

Australian Rules football 13 3.3 10.9 4.3 2.4 1.4 0.2** 0.0**

Cricket (outdoor) 14 3.2 7.1 5.5 3.2 2.2 0.7* 0.2**

Weight Training 15 2.9 3.5 4.6 3.2 2.5 2.3 1.3

Touch football 16 2.8 8.1 4.4 2.2 1.1 0.3** 0.0**

Dancing 17 2.6 5.8 2.1 1.2 1.9 2.2 2.5

Fishing 18 2.2 0.5* 2.4 2.8 2.8 3.6 1.4

Martial Arts =19 2.1 3.7 2.9 1.6 1.0 1.4 2.0

Lawn Bowls =19 2.1 0.2** 0.7* 0.6* 1.1 2.9 7.5

12 Australian Sports Commission. Participation in Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey 2010. Annual Report, 2011.



Table 11: Participation (%) for the top 20 exercise, recreation and sporting activities most frequently participated in by Australians aged 15 years and over (2001-2010)13

ACTIVITY 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank

Walking (other than bushwalking)

35.9 1 36.1 1 39.2 1 33.0 1 36.2 1 37.3 1 39 1 37.9 1 30.8 1 28.8 1

Aerobics/ fitness 23.5 2 22.9 2 23.5 2 20.2 2 19.2 2 18.5 2 17.1 2 16.0 2 14.6 3 13.0 3

Swimming 13.0 3 14.1 3 14.5 3 12.0 3 13.7 3 14.4 3 16.5 3 15.3 3 14.9 2 16.0 2

Cycling 11.9 4 11.1 4 11.6 4 9.7 4 10.2 4 10.3 4 10.5 4 9.4 4 9.3 4 9.5 4

Running 10.6 5 11.0 5 9.9 5 7.6 5 7.4 5 7.7 6 8.3 6 7.6 7 7.6 7 7.2 7

Golf 6.7 6 6.4 =6 7.1 6 5.6 8 6.8 7 7.1 7 7.9 7 8.2 6 8.7 5 8.2 6

Tennis 6.0 7 6.4 =6 6.8 7 5.8 6 6.9 6 7.8 5 8.4 5 9.0 5 8.2 6 9.2 5

Football (outdoor) 4.8 =8 5.1 8 5.2 9 4.2 9 4.2 9 3.8 9 4.2 9 4.3 9 4.5 9 3.7 10

Walking (bush) 4.8 =8 5.0 9 6.4 8 5.7 7 4.7 8 5.7 8 5.2 8 5.8 8 5.6 8 5.3 8

Netball 3.7 10 4.0 10 3.9 10 3.2 10 3.6 10 3.6 10 3.6 10 3.9 10 4.1 10 4.1 9

Basketball 3.5 =11 3.9 11 3.6 12 3.0 11 - - 3.5 11 3.2 =12 3.6 11 4.0 11 3.5 11

Yoga 3.5 =11 2.8 =14 3.2 =14 2.8 12 3.0 14 3.4 12 3.4 11 3.1 13 3.0 12 - -

Australian Football 3.3 13 2.8 =14 2.9 16 1.9 =15 2.7 15 3.4 =12 2.9 15 2.8 =14 2.5 13 2.3 17

Cricket (outdoor) 3.2 14 3.2 12 3.5 13 2.5 13 3.2 12 2.9 14 3.1 13 3.3 12 3.0 12 2.7 =13

Weight Training 2.9 15 2.9 13 3.7 11 2.1 14 3.1 13 2.0 =20 2.7 14 2.8 =14 2.2 18 2.9 12

Touch Football 2.8 16 2.2 =18 3.2 =14 - -- - - - - - - - - - -- - -

Dancing 2.6 17 2.3 17 2.3 =17 1.8 18 2.4 16 2.2 =17 2.4 16 - - 2.1 =20 2.0 20

Fishing 2.2 18 2.2 =18 2.2 =19 1.6 19 2.1 =18 2.1 19 2.3 =17 2.6 16 2.3 =15 2.4 =15

Martial Arts 2.1 =19 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Lawn Bowls 2.1 =19 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Football (indoor) - - 2.2 =18 2.3 =17 1.5 20 1.9 20 - - - - - - - - - -

Surf Sports - - 2.5 16 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

13 Australian Sports Commission. Participation in Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey 2010. Annual Report, 2011



6.2.4. ERASS RESULTS QUEENSLAND

From ERASS data14, the top ten exercise, recreation and sport activities most frequently participated in by

Queenslanders aged 15 years and over are:

1. Walking (other than bush walking) (35.0%)

2. Aerobics/fitness (23.0%)

3. Swimming (11.2%)

4. Cycling (11.1%)

5. Running (10.9)

6. Golf (6.0%)

7. Walking (bush) (5.1%)

8. Touch Football (4.5%)

9. Tennis (4.3%)

10. Weight Training (4.2%)

10. Football (outdoor) (4.2%)

Of the most popular activities, women have much higher rates of participation in walking, aerobics/fitness,

netball and yoga; whereas men have significantly higher rates of participation than women in golf, cycling,

football (outdoor) and running. The table following outlines participation rates in further detail.

There are significant differences between participation statistics for males and females in the

top 10 activities.

For Queensland males aged 15 years and over the top 10 activities are:

1. Walking (other than bush walking) (26.4%)


3. Cycling (14.4%)

4. Running (13.7%)

5. Golf (9.8%)

6. Swimming (9.6%)

7. Touch Football (5.6%)

8. Weight Training (5.5%)

8. Football (5.5%)

9. Walking Bush (5.1%)

For Queensland females aged 15 years and over the top 10 activities are:

1. Walking (other than bush walking) (43.5 %)


3. Swimming (12.8%)

4. Running (8.1%)

14 Australian Sports Commission: Participation in Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey 2010 Annual Report. (Standing Committee on Recreation and Sport), 2011



5. Cycling (7.8%)

6. Netball (5.6%)

7. Walking (bush) (5.1%)

8. Yoga (4.9%)

9. Tennis (4.2%)

10. Dancing (3.9%)



Table 12: Participation rate (%) for the top 20 exercise, recreation and sporting activities most frequently participated in by Queenslanders aged 15 years and over (2001-2009)

15

ACTIVITY 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Rate (%)

Rank Rate (%)

Rank Rate (%)

Rank Rate (%)

Rank Rate

(%)

Rank Rate

(%)

Rank Rate

(%)

Rank Rate

(%)

Rank Rate

(%)

Rank Rate

(%)

Rank


35.0 1 35.4 1 39.7 1 33.0 1 36.1 1 35.7 1 38.5 1 35.5 1 32.7 1 32.6 1

Aerobics/ fitness 23.0 2 22.1 2 23.6 2 20.4 2 17.8 2 17.6 2 14.2 3 14.4 2 13.1 3 11.1 3

Swimming 11.2 3 13.4 3 14.2 3 10.7 3 13.8 3 13.3 3 14.8 2 14.3 3 14 2 15.6 2

Cycling 11.1 4 10.6 5 10.2 4 10.2 4 8.7 4 9.9 4 9.6 4 9.3 4 8.5 4 8.4 4

Running 10.9 5 11.8 4 9.7 5 6.7 5 6.3 5 7.7 5 7.4 5 7.1 6 7.8 6 7.3 =6

Golf 6.0 6 5.7 =7 7.0 6 4.9 7 5.8 6 6.7 6 7.1 6 7.6 5 8.1 5 7.3 =6

Walking (bush) 5.1 7 5.0 9 6.4 7 6.0 6 4.2 8 4.8 8 4.4 8 4.2 =9 4.7 8 4.4 9

Touch football 4.5 8 3.6 10 6.1 8 3.9 9 3.7 9 4.6 9 4.1 9 4.0 11 4.5 9 6.2 8

Tennis 4.3 9 6.1 6 6.0 9 4.5 8 5.8 7 6.4 7 6.9 7 7.0 7 7.1 7 8.0 5

Football (outdoor) 4.2 =10 5.7 =7 5.2 10 3.2 10 3.1 10 2.5 13 3.9 10 4.7 8 4.3 10 2.7 13

Weight Training 4.2 =10 2.8 14 3.2 12 2.2 =14 2.8 13 2.7 =11 2.6 = 14 - - - - - -

Netball 3.5 12 3.1 12 4.0 11 3.0 11 3.0 =11 2.2 =18 2.6 = 14 3.6 12 3.2 12 4.2 10

Fishing 2.9 =13 2.6 16 2.9 =13 1.8 =16 3.0 =11 2.7 =11 3.8 11 4.2 =9 3.9 11 3.9 11

Martial Arts 2.9 =13 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Yoga 2.8 15 2.9 13 2.5 17 2.4 =12 2.6 14 3.0 10 3.3 12 2.9 15 2.6 =13 - -

Basketball 2.7 16 2.1 19 2.1 20 2.4 =12 2.1 =19 2.2 =18 2.1 18 1.9 =20 2.6 13 1.9 18

Cricket (outdoor) 2.6 17 2.4 17 2.8 15 1.5 =19 2.4 =17 2.3 =15 2.4 = 16 2.4 =17 2.5 =15 2.4 =14

Rugby League 2.5 18 2.7 15 2.9 =13 1.8 =16 2.5 =15 2.0 =20 2.0 = 19 2.4 =17 2.5 =15 - -

Dancing 2.3 =19 2.2 18 2.3 =18 1.6 18 - - 2.3 =15 2.0 = 19 1.9 =20 - - 1.8 19

Surf Sports 2.3 =19 3.2 11 - - - - 2.4 =17 2.4 14 3.1 13 3.3 13 2.5 =15 2.8 12

Football (indoor) - - 1.9 20 2.6 16 1.5 20 - - - - - - - - 2.1 20 - -

* Estimate has a relative standard error of between 25% and 50% and should be used with caution; ** Estimate has a relative standard error greater than 50% and is

considered too unreliable for general use.

15 Australian Bureau of Statistics. Participation in Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey 2010 Annual Report. 2011



Table 13: Top 10 exercise, recreation and sporting activities for Queensland Men and Women aged 15 yrs and over (2010)16

ACTIVITY

MALES - Participation Rate (%) & Rank FEMALES - Participation Rate (%) & Rank

2010 2010

Rate Rank Rate Rank


26.4 1 43.5 1

Aerobics/ fitness 18.5 2 27.5 2

Cycling 14.4 3 7.8 5

Running 13.7 4 8.1 4

Golf 9.8 5 2.2 17

Swimming 9.6 6 12.8 3

Touch Football 5.6 7 3.4 11

Football (outdoor) 5.5 =8 3.0 =12

Weight Training 5.5 =8 3.0 =12

Walking (bush) 5.1 10 5.1 7

Netball 1.4* - 5.6 6

Yoga 0.6* - 4.9 8

Tennis 4.3 =14 4.2 9

Dancing 0.7* - 3.9 10






Table 14: Participation rates in the top 10 exercise, recreation and sporting activities most frequently participated in by Queensland Males aged 15 yrs and over (2001-2010)17

ACTIVITY MALES - Participation Rate (%) & Rank

2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k


26.4 1 24.8 1 27.7 1 23.5 1 27.3 1 26.3 1 24.9 1 24.6 1 21.9 1 23.9 1

Aerobics/fitness 18.5 2 18.0 2 21.6 2 15.9 2 13.4 2 14.2 2 10.2 5 11.0 5 11.2 4 7.3 8

Cycling 14.4 3 14.1 4 11.9 4 14.6 3 10.9 4 12.5 3 11.3 3= 11.2 4 10.8 5 11.8 3

Running 13.7 4 15.7 3 11.2 6 7.8 6 7.5 6 8.9 6 9.7 6 8.7 6 10.7 6 10.4 5

Golf 9.8 5 9.7 6 11.4 5 8.2 4 9.3 5 11.0 5 12.3 2 11.6 3 12.7 2 11.3 4

Swimming 9.6 6 12.1 5 13.0 3 8.0 5 11.2 3 11.7 4 11.3 3= 12.4 2 11.7 3 12.9 2

Touch Football 5.6 7 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Football (outdoor) 5.5 =8 9.0 7 8.2 7 4.7 8 4.2 =12 - - 5.6 9 6.4 9 6.5 9 - -

Weight Training 5.5 =8 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Walking (bush) 5.1 10 6.1 9 5.3 11 5.5 7 4.2 =12 5.0 9 4.5 12 - - - - 4.8 12

Tennis 4.3 =14 6.2 8 6.2 9 4.6 9 5.6 7 6.2 8 6.9 7 6.6 8 6.6 8 8.0 6

Surf Sports 4.1 16 5.7 10 - - - - - - 4.6 10 5.3 10 5.3 11 5.1 11 5.1 11






Table 15: Female participation rates in the top 10 exercise, recreation and sporting activities most frequently participated in by Queenslanders aged 15 yrs and over (2001-2009)

18

ACTIVITY FEMALES - Participation Rate (%) & Rank

2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k

Rat

e

Ran

k


43.5 1 45.9 1 51.5 1 42.2 1 44.7 1 45.1 1 52.1 1 46.2 1 43.4 1 41.2 1

Aerobics/fitness 27.5 2 26.2 2 25.6 2 24.8 2 22.0 2 21.0 2 18.1 3 17.6 2 14.9 3 14.8 3

Swimming 12.8 3 14.7 3 15.5 3 13.2 3 16.2 3 14.9 3 18.2 2 16.3 3 16.2 2 18.2 2

Running 8.1 4 8.0 4 8.3 5 5.6 6 5.0 7 6.6 =5 5.1 7= 5.7 7 5.0 8 4.2 8

Cycling 7.8 5 7.2 5 8.4 4 5.9 5 6.6 4 7.3 4 7.9 4 7.5 4 6.2 5 5.1 6

Netball 5.6 6 5.3 8 6.9 7 5.1 7 5.2 6 4.1 =9 5.1 =7 5.9 6 5.7 6 7.7 5

Walking (bush) 5.1 7 3.9 9 7.5 6 6.5 4 4.1 9 4.5 8 4.2 9 4.9 9 5.3 7 4.0 9

Yoga 4.9 8 5.4 7 4.7 9 3.9 9 4.9 8 5.1 7 6.1 6 5.6 8 4.8 9 - -

Tennis 4.2 9 5.9 6 5.7 8 4.4 8 5.9 5 6.6 =5 6.9 5 7.4 5 7.5 4 8.1 4

Dancing 3.9 10 3.8 10 3.8 11 2.4 11 3.1 10 4.1 =9 3.5 10 3.4 12 - - 3.0 12






6.3. CHILDREN’S PARTICIPATION IN LEISURE AND SPORT

This information has been summarised from the Australian Bureau of Statistics ‘Children’s

Participation in Cultural and Leisure Activities’ (October 2012) release.

Overall Leisure Participation

From ABS data it is estimated that:

60.2% of children participated in organised sport outside of school hours.

35.2% participated in organised cultural activities (selected) outside of school hours.

71.0% of children attended a cultural venue or event outside of school hours

27.7% did not participate in organised sport or cultural activities.

Trends in Participation

Participation in organised sport by children, decreased from 2009 (63%) to 2012 (60%).

The participation rate for organised cultural activities increased by 1.5 percentage points from

2009 to 2012.

The percentage of participants accessing the internet increased significantly from 79.4% in 2009 to

89.7% in 2012.

Participation in Organised Sport

In the 12 months to April 2012, an estimated 1.7 million (60%) children participated in at least one

organised sport outside of school hours.

Participation in organised sport declined from 2009 (63%) to 2012 (60%).

Boys had a higher participation rate in organised sport compared to girls overall (66% compared

with 54%) and across all age groups, with the greatest difference being between 9 to 11 year olds

(boys 73.3% compared with girls 59.0%).

Participation in Cultural Activities

In the 12 months to April 2012, an estimated 980,000 (35.2%) children participated in organised

cultural activities and 1.9 million (71%) attended a cultural venue or event.

Playing a musical instrument (17.6%) and Dancing (15.0%) were the most popular organised

cultural activities.

Participation in organised cultural activities increased slightly from 2009 (33.7%) to 2012 (35.2%).

Girls had a significantly higher participation rate in organised cultural activities to boys (44.9%)

compared with 23.0%).

Most Popular Sport & Recreation Activities

Overall, the most popular organised sport activities were Swimming and Diving (17.7%) and

Soccer (outdoor) (14.3%).

The most popular organised sport activities for boys were Soccer (outdoor) (21.7%), Swimming

and Diving (16.5%) and Australian Rules football (14.9%).

The most popular organised sport activities for girls were Swimming and Diving (18.9%), Netball

(16.2%) and Gymnastics (8.1%).



Of the other selected recreational activities, the most popular was Watching TV, DVD’s or videos

(95.8%), Other screen-based activities (85.4%) and Homework or study (81.4%).

Skateboarding, rollerblading or riding a scooter (53.8%) and Bike riding (63.5%) were moderately

popular, with more males than females participating.

Participation by Queensland Children In Organised Sport

Children in Queensland had the second lowest participation rate (56.5%) in organised sport. This

compares with the lowest rate of 53.7% in the Northern Territory and the highest rate of 73.3% in

the Australian Capital Territory.

Queensland’s participation rate has declined significantly from 60.2% in 2009 to 56.5% in 2012.



Table 16: Participation rate (%) for the top 12 selected organised sports most frequently participated in by children aged 5 to 14 years (2000, 2003, 2006, 2009, 2012)19

ACTIVITY

2012 2009 2006 2003 2000

Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank Rate (%) Rank

Swimming 17.1 1 18.5 1 17.4 1 16.6 1 14.4 1

Soccer (outdoor) 14.3 2 13.2 2 13.2 2 13.4 2 11.4 2

Australian Rules Football 8.1 3 8.6 3 7.5 4 7.3 6 6.6 6

Netball 8.0 4 8.4 4 8.5 3 9.1 3 9.1 3

Basketball 7.9 5 7.4 6 6.6 6 7.7 5 7.6 5

Tennis 7.4 6 7.9 5 7.3 5 8.6 4 8.5 4

Martial Arts 5.8 7 5.7 7 4.5 8 4.9 8 4.0 8

Gymnastics 4.8 8 4.6 9 3.5 10 3.5 10 0.9 11

Cricket (outdoor) 4.7 9 5.2 8 5.4 7 5.0 7 5.3 7

Rugby League 3.9 10 3.6 10 4.2 9 2.9 11 3.6 10

Athletics/track & field 3.2 11 3.3 11 2.9 11 3.8 9 3.9 9

Rugby Union 2.1 12 - - - - - - - -

19 ABS. Children’s Participation in Cultural and Leisure Activities, 2009, 2012.



Table 17: Gender breakdown of participation rates in the top 10 organised sports most frequently participated in by Children aged 5 to 14 years (2012)

20

ACTIVITY FEMALES

Participation Rate (%) & Rank

ACTIVITY MALES

Participation Rate (%) & Rank

2012 2012

Rate Rank Rate Rank

Swimming 18.9 1 Soccer (outdoor) 21.7 1

Netball 16.2 2 Swimming 16.5 2

Gymnastics 8.1 3 Australian Rules Football 14.9 3

Basketball 6.6 4 Basketball 9.2 4

Soccer (outdoor) 6.5 5 Cricket (outdoor) 8.6 5

Tennis 6.6 6 Tennis 8.4 6

Martial Arts 3.7 7 Martial Arts 7.8 7

Athletics/track and field 3.1 8 Rugby League 7.5 8

Hockey 2.0 9 Rugby Union 4.0 9

Touch Football 1.6 10 Athletics/ track & field 3.2 10

6.4. PARTICIPATION BY WOMEN AND GIRLS IN SPORT

AND RECREATION

6.4.1. ABOUT TIME!21

A recent Senate report into participation in sport and recreation by women and girls in Australia identified the

following:

Female participation rates in organised sport declined from a high of 64 per cent at 11 years to 53

percent at 14 years

Female participation in active leisure activities such as skateboarding/ rollerblading and bike riding

also declined from about 10 years of age

Some 46 per cent of girls did not participate in organised sport (compared with 31 per cent of

boys)

Age and gender are important variables in explaining participation rates in organised sport, with

girls being less likely than boys to participate, even when organised dancing (a popular activity

among girls) is included in the analysis

Girls and young women are less physically active than young men and become increasingly so as

they get older, in particular as they leave the structured environment of school and make the

transition to adulthood

Girls’ participation in organised sport and in the more active leisure activities declines from the

mid-teen years. Leaving school marks a decline in general physical activity

20 ABS. Children’s Participation in Cultural and Leisure Activities, October 2012. 21 The Senate. Environment, Communications, Information Technology and the Arts Reference Committee. “About

Time!” Women in Sport and Recreation in Australia. September 2006.



The highest percentage of those playing sport are women over 35, which may be attributed to

mothers returning to sport

Motherhood also influences participation in sport and recreation activities. Women with children

are less likely to be active, whilst inactivity increases with the number of children

Opportunities for social sport and recreation decreased as women become older

While women’s participation in organised sport declines markedly (particularly after the mid-20’s),

participation in non-organised sport generally increases

Significantly, studies of outdoor recreation showed that ‘competition related reasons’ were the

least important reasons for females to engage in outdoor recreational activities

The fitness sector, comprising fitness centre businesses and personal training studios, is an

important part of women’s sport and recreation experience. The industry estimates that around

900,000 women in Australia use fitness businesses, and comprise around 55 per cent of all fitness

centre clients. The industry is growing fast, with the largest player, Fitness First Australia,

reporting a growth rate of around 30 per cent per annum, again with most members being female,

and most members being new (that is, not just switching between clubs)

As with outdoor recreation, the fitness sector’s high rate of female participation may reflect a

preference for less organised and less competitive physical activity

Dance has been used in many programs to encourage girls in particular, who are less likely to

participate in organised sport, to become more physically active.

The ‘About Time’ report noted the following factors as being directly responsible for the low participation rate

of women and girls in sport, recreation and physical activity:

Lack of information about what programs are available

Lack of access to appropriate, accessible, affordable and acceptable facilities and services

Lack of culturally appropriate facilities/programs

Social stereotyping

Lack of time or perceived lack of time

Lack of childcare and lack of awareness of childcare options

Fewer opportunities available for participation

Reduced leisure time owing to family responsibilities

Lack of skills or perceived lack of skills

Lack of financial resources

Harassment

Lack of confidence in approaching activities alone; and

Cultural and social pressures

These factors indicate that major challenges must be overcome before gender equity in sport, recreation and

physical activity can be achieved. They also suggest the need to understand and address the complex

influences on female involvement in sport, recreation and physical activity, issues such as the broader

social, economic, cultural and physical context of the lives of women and girls and the impact of the current

infrastructure of sport and recreation.



Barriers to girls’ participation were seen as:

Poor self image/self confidence

Poorer motor skills due to lower rates of participation in early childhood

A lack of confidence to perform physical tasks

Dissatisfaction with body shape and appearance

Dress code

Lack of positive role models

Inappropriate school physical education programs (i.e. competition based)

Key factors influencing participation by girls were identified as:

Role of family/ peers – Family, friends and peers exercise an important influence on girls’ sports

participation. Girls whose parents regularly exercise are much more likely to continue their

involvement in sport than those whose parents are inactive.

Physical education in schools – People who participate in sport and other types of physical activity

at an early age, and especially during adolescence, are more likely to be physically active adults.

The following barriers affecting women’s participation in sport were documented:

Lack of time – Women tend to have less time than men as they take on the greater burden of

responsibility for housework, childcare and the care of elderly or infirm relatives.

Cost of participation – The cost of involvement in a recreation activity is prohibitive for many

women.

Child care – Access to appropriate, regular and affordable childcare options is a major barrier to

participation in sport and recreation activities.

Facilities – The lack of appropriate facilities is a barrier to participation for both girls and older

women. At the time when the majority of current facilities were designed and built, participation in

sports was strongly dominated by males, and sports grounds and amenities were built with little

thought for women’s needs. Submissions noted that the provision of appropriate facilities is a

particular problem in regional and rural areas. The lack of suitable facilities is also increasingly felt

as more women engage in traditionally male-dominated sports.



6.5. TRENDS AND ISSUES IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

In 2006, the Queensland Government released Be Active Queensland22 which provides a framework for

coordinated action by the health sector and other agencies to improve health outcomes by increasing

physical activity levels of the population and integrating them into everyday life. Some of the key

observations of this document include:

Less than half of all Queensland adults (47.5%) get sufficient levels of activity to derive a health

benefit (defined as 150 minutes of at least moderate activity and 5 sessions per week) (p2)

Physical inactivity ranks second only to tobacco as the most important factor in disease prevention

in Australia (p3)

Physical inactivity contributes to around 13,000 deaths per annum principally from coronary heart

disease, type 2 diabetes, colon cancer and other conditions such as stroke in Australia (p3)

Physical inactivity in Australia costs the health system about $400m in direct health care costs and

this excludes indirect costs such as social, financial and personal costs to individuals, families and

carers (p3)

Queensland has a high proportion of adults who undertake no leisure time physical activity at all

(16% - 20%) (p2)

Major public gains will be achieved by getting inactive or insufficiently active people to be more

active (p7)

Special needs groups such as those with low disposable incomes, Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islanders, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, people with a disability or chronic condition

and those in isolated locations have the worst health outcomes (p7)

The document outlines two priority outcome areas and action areas.

KEY OUTCOME ACTION AREAS

1. Develop infrastructure that supports active living initiatives

Communication and information about physical activity

Physical activity workforce capacity

Availability of high quality physical activity evidence

Management of physical activity initiatives

2. Whole-of-community approach to active living

Community capacity for active living

Local community environments

Health services

Schools and outside school care services

workplaces

22. Queensland Public Health Forum September 2006. “Be Active Queensland 2006 – 2010. A framework for health sector

action for physical activity in Queensland.”



Several “smart buys” for active living in Queensland are identified. These include:

Redesign existing communities with a focus on walkability, cycleability and active living

Provide innovative ways to share community resources (eg schools, open spaces, sporting

grounds, swimming pools) to maximise physical activity opportunities

Implement innovative strategies to support the provision of community facilities (eg pools, courts,

equipment) and programs, particularly for priority population groups

Use integrated planning for “mixed use localities” and the availability of facilities (eg swimming

pools) in rural and remote communities

Maximise the provision, access and aesthetics of open spaces to maximise physical activity

opportunities

Provide leadership and coordination, strong policy support and increased resources to develop

policies, programs, environments and infrastructure that support and encourage populations with

special needs to be active (eg people with disabilities)

6.6. IMPLICATIONS OF TRENDS FOR RECREATION

PLANNING

Implications of these trends for sport and recreation planning include:

Local government will have an increasingly important role in changing physical activity behaviour

(e.g. via development of cycle/ walkways, provision of sporting facilities/ activities).

There is increased demand for “self-directed exercise related recreation” this means that Local

Government will need to respond to increasing need for running, walking and cycling networks as

well as demand for public spaces to accommodate fitness and exercise activities with demand

occurring before during and after work hours.

People will want to be able to access recreation opportunities easily from where they live

especially in areas where density is increasing. Local and regional linkages via cycle/ walkways

will grow in importance.

The increasing popularity of participating in outdoor recreation activities in more natural settings

means that there will be a need for government to balance the interests of visitors and impacts on

the natural environment. Management of natural areas and the type of visitor facilities/ services

provided are also issues that government will need to address.

Planning will need to take into account the needs of people of different abilities, ages and cultures.

Future facilities and activities will need to be safe, easily accessible, with few barriers to entry, and

cater for formal and informal forms of participation. Provision of safe facilities and safe access-

ways is of particular importance where participation by females is concerned.

Facilities will need to ensure provision of appropriate facilities and amenities for female

participants, particularly in rural areas and in activities that have traditionally been male-dominated,

but in which females are increasingly participating.

Provision of crèche facilities or programs with organised childcare will become more necessary to

facilitate opportunities for participation by mothers.

Lighting for safety or extended usage times in some parks will be increasingly important. Evening

competitions are likely to continue to grow.

Facility design should maximise opportunities for generating increased revenue and utilisation and/

or to reduce operating costs.



In order to maximise usage and synergies with existing infrastructure, site location should focus on

links with other facilities such as other sporting facilities, retail centres, or educational

establishments. Site location should ensure that impacts on neighbouring residents are

minimised.

Increasing demands within limited budgets are likely to reinforce the need for regional scale

planning of higher level facilities to ensure that facilities are economically and socially viable

Maximum flexibility in design to accommodate varying community needs and forms of use should

be a prerequisite.

Sporting associations will need to recognise social and population changes and participation

trends and adapt their activities and competition structures to suit (e.g. provision of “pay and play”

opportunities).

There will be an increasing need for less traditional/ “alternative” sport and recreation activities to

address the trend towards unstructured recreation. Facility design will need to remain flexible so

as to enable opportunities for informal/ non-organised and alternative activities.

With children off their hands, older people will have more leisure time and higher disposable

incomes and will seek to participate in more active forms of leisure than in the past.

Service providers will be obliged to ensure adequate levels of information dissemination and

promotion of sport, recreation and physical activity opportunities.



7. POLICY AND MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW

7.1. EXISTING POLICY FRAMEWORK

A review of existing policy frameworks within Cassowary Coast Regional Council that support/ outline the

roles and function of the Council in providing sport and recreation opportunities for the communities was

undertaken.

Johnstone Shire operated the sport and recreation program under the Sport and Recreation Policy, which

stated the Johnstone Shire Council’s commitment to sport and recreation and outlined the role of the Council

in delivery of facilities and various support mechanisms. This policy was reviewed and amendments

recommended in the Johnstone Shire Council – Sport and Recreation Facilities Study 1999.

Information obtained on the situation within Cardwell Shire Council indicates that there wasn’t a written and

approved policy, but the Cardwell Shire – Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan 2007 (and its

predecessors) recommended/ provided direction on Council’s position in relation to facility provision,

services, support and funding for sport and recreation community.

A review of the policy register on the Cassowary Coast Regional Council web-site indicates that the

Regional Council has not transitioned the previous Johnstone Shire policy or approved a new/ revised policy

on sport and recreation- by default it appears they are working under the old JSC policy which was last

updated in 2004.

CCRC does have a community engagement policy (4.9) which outlines community engagement objectives

and actions for council. This policy would inform the development of a new sport and recreation policy.

Recommendations

1. The final sport & recreation strategy serve as the primary source document for policy development

and that a new/ revised policy be prepared following adoption of the final strategy. A draft policy

framework is provided in Appendix 10.1. The revised policy should outline councils vision, goals

and role in a number of areas including:

Involving the community

Active and Healthy Communities

Supporting clubs and groups

Providing access to sporting facilities and land

Supporting the development of events

2. A Tenures policy should be developed to guide the detail of facility use/ land lease arrangements

by clubs and organisations. Particularly in regard to improve clarity on respective responsibilities

and to ensure greater equity across the new council for the level of support received by clubs.

3. Funding support for sport and recreation organisations is considered and included/ revised with

each year’s review of the Council’s operational plan and budget. A formal policy is recommended

to guide any grants and in-kind support programs. The policy provides the basis for assistance

programs and allow allows for the objective eligibility and assessment criteria to be established

and linked to policy aims (those of a sport and rec policy and a grants/ assistance policy)



8. FACILITIES OVERVIEW

This facilities overview is based on the existing data in the previous sport and recreation plans and

discussions with council staff. The overview is organised by broad facility type:

1. Indoor (Sports) Facilities

2. Aquatic facilities (constructed pools and swimming centres)

3. Sports Precincts

4. Water-based sport facilities – marine and river-focused

5. Other

i. Skate parks and youth spaces

ii. Single use Facilities – local/ district (golf, bowls etc) and

iii. Difficult to Locate Sports – regional (hard to locate activities eg motorsport, aero sport,

archery, shooting etc)

8.1. INDOOR (SPORTS) FACILITIES

These facilities are either fully enclosed or partially enclosed and provide at least one court (usually

basketball dimensions) with associated amenities for spectators and players and an administration or point

of control area. The greatest value can be derived from the development of indoor sports facilities when they

are multi-purpose, providing opportunities for a number of activities to be offered, thereby maximising the

return or benefit from the investment. Cassowary Coast has a number of facilities in this category; the

following is an overview of existing supply along with current usage summary and any issues for the major

facilities. Where these are known, the overview also identifies any undersupply or access issues and

expressed “unmet” demand.

There following indoor sports halls are currently operating:

Innisfail PCYC

Innisfail State College Sports Centre

Tully Showgrounds- “the Igloo”

Tully State High School- Tully MPC

Of the above only the Tully MPC has sufficient space for spectators. There are also covered sports courts

(semi indoor) at:

St Claire’s Tully

Good Counsel College- Innisfail

Mission Beach Primary



8.1.1. POLICE AND CITIZENS YOUTH CLUB (PCYC)

The Innisfail PCYC is a large venue located adjacent to Pease Park. The land and facility is owned by the

Council and leased to the PCYC. The recently expanded complex comprises an indoor sports hall, weights

and fitness gym, squash courts, gymnastics area, activities/ aerobics room, Youth program space, childcare

and change/ toilet facilities.

The PCYC is heavily used with programs catering for all ages and a diverse offering that includes, music,

meditation, sport and fitness.

8.1.2. “THE IGLOO” (JP BYRNE SPORTS STADIUM)

This one court facility is located at the Tully Showgrounds and prior to the development of the Tully MPC at

the High School was the primary facility for court sports in Tully. The facility is within an old army “igloo” and

is not purpose designed for sports court use. The space is undersized for senior competition and does not

accommodate many spectators.

8.1.3. TULLY MPC

This multi-purpose indoor sports complex was developed at the Tully State High School and officially opened

in September 2011. The $6.1M centre was built under a partnership between the Cassowary Coast Regional

Council, the State Government, Federal Government and the high school community. Proposals for a multi-

purpose sports centre in Tully date back to the 1970’s, with this centre including indoor and outdoor

multipurpose sports courts, retractable tiered seating and fixed seating to collectively accommodate up to

700 people, a large stage area, and a sound and lighting system.

The facility is managed for school and community use by the school under an agreement with Council.

During the preparation of this revised sport and recreation strategy, information was obtained that the

multipurpose centre had reached capacity, with requests for space/ time being rejected. This aspect needs

to be interrogated with/ between the school and the Council in order to ensure that the facility is meeting its

intended function as a multipurpose school and community use facility. The management arrangements and

agreement may need to be revised as a result of this review.

The use of the MPC and the Igloo by indoor sports activities should be considered in parallel and the space/

time of the two facilities apportioned among the groups and activities that require it in the most efficient way.

8.1.4. INNISFAIL STATE COLLEGE SPORTS CENTRE

The indoor court facility at the Innisfail State College 2 indoor courts and a gymnasium. Many sporting

organisations make use of this facility which boasts two full size courts for basketball, netball, indoor touch,

volleyball, soccer and badminton.



8.2. AQUATIC FACILITIES

CCRC currently operates 3 aquatic facilities:

Innisfail Pool

Tully Pool

Cardwell Pool

8.2.1. INNISFAIL SWIMMING POOL

In the late 1990,s Council commenced a major redevelopment of the Innisfail Swimming Pool in partnership

with a lessee. The pool provides a 50 m lap pool, splash play, program pool and heated hydrotherapy.

Given the level of investment undertaken at the existing location, no consideration of any future relocation or

upgrading in the foreseeable future is envisaged.

8.2.2. TULLY MEMORIAL BATHS

Most recently the pool received a significant upgrade completed in 2006-07. Tully Pool has an outdoor 50 m

pool, small program pool, play facilities and a small exercise gym. Council has still identified further works

required for the facility which is well used by Tully residents and backpackers/ seasonal workers. Current

use also includes residents from surrounding areas who use the pool for formal programs and recreational

swimming

8.2.3. CARDWELL POOL

Recently upgraded and refurbished following Cyclone Yasi the Cardwell has a 50 m lap pool, small program

pool, and splash play. The pool is well used by local residents and offers a number of programs.

8.2.4. FUTURE MISSION BEACH AQUATIC FACILITY

The Mission Beach community has been lobbying for the development of an aquatic facility for a number of

years. Over the last decade numerous studies have identified the need and supported the case for a pool at

Mission Beach. While there is general community agreement regarding the need for a pool there has been

recurring divergence regarding the best location and the essential design of the pool.

The Cardwell Shire Council – Sport, Recreation and Open Space Plan (July 2007) outlined the methodology

and results of a feasibility study undertaken in 2004 for the Mission Beach Aquatic & Recreation Club; this

study concluded that the development of an aquatic facility is feasible and identified three possible sites with

associated positives and negatives.

A review of the feasibility has recently been completed and the recommendations endorsed by council. The

most feasible location was found to be MARCS Park and updated information including concept designs

were prepared for a facility to be developed in MARCS Park, adjacent to the existing arts centre, girl guides

building and four tennis/ (multipurpose) courts. The aquatic elements of the concept include an 8-lane 25m

pool, separate leisure water with beach entry and splash play and an administration/ amenities/ kiosk

building. Future additions include a hydrotherapy pool, “pay to play” leisure facilities (e.g. jumping pillow)

and covered program space to allow for dry programs and community event use.



Information from CCRC officers is that the Council has given approval for the development of the aquatic

facility at MARCS Park, with funding allocated in the 2012-13 and 2013-14 budgets. The timing of

development/ construction is still to be decided. The most recent preliminary cost estimate (April 2013) for

the total development is $6.134m23. This estimate is preliminary and based on the most recent concept

master plan. A staged development was proposed in the feasibility with priorities being the lap pool and

leisure water.

8.3. SPORTS PRECINCTS

8.3.1. CALLENDAR PARK

Callendar Park is a regional standard facility and is one of the region’s major venues for spectator based

football codes and outdoor events. A range of major sporting and other events have been held at the

ground. Tenants and users of the park include rugby league, netball, tennis, pipe band, Army, Innisfail State

School and event organisers.

The grandstand has covered seating for approximately 2000 patrons and incorporates catering, kiosk, 18

corporate boxes, gymnasium and cold room.

8.3.2. GOONDI BEND (INNISFAIL COMBINED SPORTING ASSOC)

The facility at Goondi is valued and used by several groups and provides a significant facility for sport and

recreation.

Goondi Bend is managed by the Innisfail Combined Sporting Association in conjunction with Council. The

Association has representatives of all affiliated user groups on the management committee and strives to

generate funding and support for further development of the facility.

Development of the facility has been mostly according to a master plan adopted some years ago and it

would be prudent to develop a new master plan.

8.3.3. INNISFAIL STATE COLLEGE OVAL

The State College (formerly TAFE) oval is a well constructed facility supported by the indoor sports centre. It

offers a cricket/ football field but is primarily an oval format facility.

No improvements are suggested, however the level of community use and access should be reviewed as

part of the next sport and recreation plan..

8.3.4. CASTOR PARK, MOURILYAN

This field sport venue supports football (soccer) as well as little athletics and is heavily used. The site

suffers from significant drainage problems.

23 Mitchell Brandtman; Marcs Park Mission Beach Concept Master Plan; Preliminary Estimate (prepared for Strategic Leisure Group), April 2013.



8.3.5. PEASE PARK

This large reserve is a multi-user precinct supporting the Innisfail Golf Club, Racecourse and Showgrounds

Complex; Pony club and PCYC. Recent refurbishment of the showgrounds was undertaken due to cyclone

damage. Management of the site is undertaken by the various user organisations and the main issue is the

lack of a consolidated plan or vision for the ongoing improvements to the whole precinct.

8.3.6. TULLY SHOWGROUNDS

The Tully Showgrounds precinct is comprised of a showgrounds reserve and a recreation reserve.

This precinct is a multi-user precinct with multiple facility development and multiple user groups on the site.

Management is by Council with event, seasonal or longer term lease agreements established with user

groups. The Showgrounds is the major venue for the southern region and hosts the premier field sport and

outdoor events arena. The Annual Show is a very successful event and has a solid reputation in the region.

As the main football facility for the southern region the fields get regular training and competition use at both

junior and senior levels.

A master plan for the precinct was prepared in 2000 and, while not fully adopted, some elements such as the

reconfiguration of the sports fields were adopted. An updated concept plan was prepared in 2007, the aim of

which was to provide logical improvement steps to provide new facilities/amenities, improve efficiency of use

(like uses in adjacent areas), amenity, legibility and upgraded access to account for all uses.

In 2011 tropical cyclone Yasi caused significant damage to the showgrounds facilities and amenities, Council

has been working with the community to determine combined restoration and upgrade priorities, such that

any investment of recovery funds coupled with other sources achieves an improved facility.

As the Tully Showgrounds is a significant multi-use venue in the area, a planned and logical approach to its

redevelopment is necessary.

The aim of the post-Yasi redevelopment is to improve the functionality (and efficiency of use) of the

showgrounds and consider new ways for the area to be used in order to reflect the changing needs of the

community. As of July 2012, the Council had identified a number of themes emerging from the community

feedback, generally categorised as:

Facility/amenity improvements

Modernise buildings and amenities;

Improve maintenance of buildings and amenities;

Facilities and amenities need to accommodate parents with babies;

Upgrade the existing grandstand or build a new facility;

Provide more covered seating closer to the football fields;

Improve horse stalls and livestock pavilions;

Improve lighting;

Improve access and circulation

Improve disability access to grounds, buildings and amenities;

Remove the fence around the showground ring;

Upgrade access roads, car parks and pathways; and



Improve the entrance to the showgrounds.

Recommendations:

1. Tully Showground be maintained as regional multi sports and events facility and the new master

plan be implemented as resources allow.

2. Compile completed restoration plan into one prioritised master/ implementation plan to guide

capital investment, upgrades and maintenance requirements

3. Undertake regular (5-yearly reviews) of the master plan, to update background information on club/

group/ activities – specifically growth/ decline in membership/ popularity; facility improvement

requirements

8.3.7. TULLY SPORTS RESERVE

The Tully sports reserve supports a number of field sports and has a basic level of development. A

masterplan to enable greater sharing by different codes was prepared as part of the 2007 sport and

recreation plan.

One of the options canvassed during the showgrounds master plan was the possible relocation of rugby

league and touch football from the Tully Showgrounds to the Sports Reserve. Retaining these codes at the

Showgrounds was supported.

8.3.8. MARCS PARK – MISSION BEACH

The park currently has a large well drained multi-use field suitable for senior cricket (with a turf wicket) and

most other field sports. There is a central community facility comprised of a covered area, storage, basic

kiosk and toilets. MARCS (Markets, Arts, Recreation, Culture, Sport) Park also hosts the Mission Beach

Tennis Club(4 courts and a small club room) and the Mission Beach Community Arts Centre.

The park is maintained by Council and is managed by the MARCS Park Committee24 in conjunction with

Council. MARCS Park is the Council preferred site for the development of the Mission Beach Aquatic

Centre.

The main issue relating to the management and use of MARCS Park is the absence of alternative facilities

or spaces for development for sport and community use. The only other available sporting fields are at the

primary school and a single multi-use field at Frog’s Hollow (which has had some improvements to cope with

drainage and flooding issues). Assessment of capacity and demand from population growth undertaken for

the Cardwell Sport Recreation and Open Space Plan (2007) identified an under supply in the greater Mission

Beach areas and that longer term planning should seek to find additional land able to accommodate another

2 multi-use fields.

Recommendations:

1. MARCS Park to be maintained as a community, sport and recreation precinct.

2. The Master Plan for MARCS Park should be updated to show the location of the aquatic centre,

the expansion plans/ aspirations of the community arts centre and other users. This plan once

24 http://www.marcsparkmissionbeach.com/index.html

http://www.marcsparkmissionbeach.com/index.html



developed and updated needs to be signed off by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council. Further

development of the site should follow the plan or a revision of the plan.

3. Undertake regular (5-yearly reviews) of the master plan, to update background information on club/

group/ activities – specifically growth/ decline in membership/ popularity; facility improvement

requirements.

4. The management model for MARCS Park should be reviewed to ensure transparency in the

management responsibility between user groups of the park and Council.

8.3.9. CENTENARY PARK, SILKWOOD

This is a venue for junior soccer in the southern part of the regional council area. Upgrading of these fields

to improve drainage and other facilities has been undertaken since tropical cyclone Yasi. The park also

contains local tennis courts.

8.3.10. CARDWELL SPORTS RESERVE

Cardwell Sports Reserve is the primary community reserve for Cardwell, with a mix of community halls/

clubhouses, multi-purpose court, 2 tennis courts, cricket and football fields and a BMX- jump park. The

reserve is adjacent to the country club which provides golf and bowls. Overall a very effective and functional

precinct is formed and the capacity of the precinct to support current and expected future demand is

considered sufficient. In the 2007 plan a lack of indoor/ undercover space and difficulties with accessing the

multi-use court were the main concerns.

Recommendations:

1. Cardwell Sports Reserve to be maintained as a district community, sport and recreation facility.

2. Over time (as the buildings on the reserve become unserviceable) remove and replace with one

multi-purpose facility that provides for the range of services currently provided by the multiple

buildings.

3. Review management and access arrangements periodically for built facilities (courts and

community hall) to ensure that they are providing maximum access for the community.

8.4. WATER-BASED SPORT FACILITIES

Boat ramps are provided through a combination of Council and State (Department of Transport & Main

Roads) funding for both establishment, upgrades and on-going maintenance. In order to confirm

responsibilities between Council and the Department a program of works that identifies all requirements for

the boat ramps should be compiled and costed. The priorities for the works should be determined following

negotiation with the Department and allocation of funding. Some issues have been identified with the

functionality of some ramps in particular weather conditions and other concerns have been raised regarding

river/ creek based ramps where crocodile numbers are increasing. Pontoons for loading are a preferred

approach for river based ramps however there is no commitment from the state to funding upgrades at any

ramps and council is unable to resource either the installation or maintenance.



Surf lifesaving clubs (SLSC) operate at Mission Beach and Etty Bay. The Etty Bay club has had major

renovations since damaged in the cyclone.

Innisfail Rowing, Game Fishing/ Clubs and facilities on Fitzgerald Esplanade are adequate for current needs.

Council also funds the operation of stinger nets at Etty Bay, Mission Beach North, Mission Beach South and

Kurrimine. These facilities are important for year round swimming and are mostly valued by the local

community as they are only deployed in the summer when tourism numbers are low.

8.5. SKATE PARKS AND YOUTH SPACES

Skate parks are currently located in the four primary towns: Mission Beach (Rotary Park); Cardwell (Sports

Reserve), Tully (adjacent to Showground) and Innisfail (Fitzgerald Esplanade).

The El Arish community is making a case for the construction of a skate park in the local community. The

community has an existing playground, a BMX track in disrepair, a community hall, golf club, cricket field and

state school. The driver for a skate park is actually the need for youth facilities and specifically a youth

specific space that provides an active recreation area as well as a place for young people to gather and

interact.

The development of a formal youth space strategy would focus on the need to create a “legitimate” and

appealing place for young people. This may include enhancements to a skate park, a shelter and outdoor

court or even an indoor space.

Recommendations:

1. In the short term options for development of a youth space in El Arish should be explored with the

community. Consider the development of a local skate park, “street plaza” or jump park at the

location of the old BMX track. The site chosen needs to be visible to the local community (casual

surveillance) and located with other community/ sport & recreation facilities to reduce the

maintenance burden for Council.

2. Council should consider the development of a youth space strategy that identifies the areas of

need and the options for responding that are commensurate with councils resources and the

resources and partnerships available in the local community.

.

8.6. SINGLE USE FACILITIES

8.6.1. GOLF CLUBS, BOWLS CLUBS

Long-term sustainability of the sites could be enhanced by encouraging amalgamations and the

development of “umbrella” clubs which can support a number of smaller groups. As bowls clubs and golf

clubs often have established facilities and draw membership from across the community they can be in a

good position to support other (smaller groups) . this can also improve the viability of the golf club or bowls

club. This ‘country club’ or multi-sport club model is utilised successfully in a number of smaller

communities, each sport club is independently responsible for its activities, participants and events, while the

facility maintenance and improvements are managed precinct-wide by an overarching body with wider

membership than the sum of the clubs participants.



8.7. DIFFICULT TO LOCATE SPORTS

8.7.1. TULLY MOTORSPORTS

The Cassowary Coast Regional Council (April 2013) resolved that a detailed investigation/ feasibility be

carried out to develop a “centralised Dirt Bike Riding Facility” at a site on Dallachy Rd (south of Tully). The

preferred site is based on the existing 9 Ha motocross track and seeks to expand into the surrounding 188

Ha reserve which is appropriately zoned and allocated for recreation and camping.. The reserve is under the

control of the Council.

The Council decision marks the beginning of the strategic planning for the facility in conjunction with relevant

stakeholders. This feasibility needs to include consideration of:

Site conditions (geotechnical, environmental, drainage

Planning requirements and relevant approvals

Access, transport and vehicle management to ensure safe operation at club and event use levels

Consideration of other sports/ motorsports that could also be located at this site to maximise the

investment

Event selection/ tendering

event related logistics associated with hosting (numbers of possible participants, accommodation

etc)

event hosting responsibilities and capabilities of the clubs, including the capabilities to generate/

promote new (locally generated) events

possible tourism and economic benefits to the region

consideration of the management arrangements and number/ type of events local, regional and

higher that c/should be held at the venue.



9. CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE

CASSOWARY COAST

9.1. AGEING POPULATION/ CHANGING DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE

The “Participation in Sport and Physical Recreation survey” compiled by the Australian Bureau of Statistics

for 2011-12 found that the highest participation rate in sport and physical recreation was reported by people

aged 15–17 years (78%). Participation generally decreased with age, with persons aged 65 years and over

having the lowest participation rate (50%). In general, males had slightly higher participation rates than

females (66% and 64% respectively) although this was not the case for all age groups. Participation rates in

the younger age groups were significantly different between males and females. Males aged 15–17 years

had a higher participation rate than females of the same age (85% and 70% respectively). Similarly for 18–

24 year olds, males again had a higher participation rate than females (76% and 67% respectively) (Table

18)

Table 18: Participants, Sport and physical recreation, by age and sex

25

Cassowary Coast communities are demonstrating an increasing median age and the traditional offerings of

sport and recreation opportunities focussing almost solely on the needs of young people will be challenged.

The same survey also showed that ‘parks and reserves’ are the most popular facility type for activities,

further demonstrating that the predominance of investment (land, resources and funding) in formal facilities

for sport may not provide the most advantageous community benefit.

9.2. AGEING INFRASTRUCTURE

The quality and age of facilities in the regional Council area varies considerably but in general facilities are in

relatively good condition given the size of the organisation, the number of small and dispersed communities,

a historical approach to supply that tried to replicate facilities in every community and the significant

demands on a Council that has had to recover from two major cyclones in recent years and has relatively

limited opportunities for increased income.

As identified in the Open Space Report the continuation of a policy where every facility is retained is unlikely

to be sustainable for council. A planned reduction in the number of facilities being maintained is necessary.

25 Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Participation in Sport and Physical Recreation, Australia, 2011-12. Released April 2013.



As facilities and assets reach the end of their useful/ serviceable life, new opportunities besides

refurbishment or replacement should be explored. In general the strategy should focus on opportunities for

combining facilities and creating more multi-use infrastructure that returns greater community use for the

management investment.

This exploration needs to consider the reality of demographic change in some areas and the wether the

emerging community in a particular location would use or be able to support some of the legacy

infrastructure currently present. Sustainable usage patterns; changes in standards for the facility type; an

assessment of the whole of life cost of retaining/ replacing the facility; opportunities for current users to be

accommodated elsewhere are all factors in the consideration.

Council should resist the urge to expand provision except where an objective feasibility and needs

assessment has demonstrated the value of the investment and that the ongoing operational

implications can be supported.

For the next five or more years the focus needs to be on consolidation, rationalisation, improving

utilisation of existing facilities and spaces before expanding or developing more.

Requests for support of redevelopments or the establishment of new facilities should only be

considered for location at existing sporting facilities and should demonstrate multiple use and

feasibility.

.

9.3. BUILDING ON THE ADVENTURE RECREATION MARKET IN

TULLY AND MISSION BEACH

Tully, Mission Beach and the area surrounding has a national reputation for the opportunities for outdoor and

extreme outdoor recreation activities (skydiving, rafting, hiking, kayaking). The topography of the area (Tully

River white-water, Coastal and mountain environment) and its location near residential and tourism

accommodation within easy travelling distance provides further opportunities to develop and package a

range of outdoor and extreme activities – both for short term and long term participation, (ie half day to two

weeks).

The recent work on trails has identified a number of opportunities to expand the available opportunities

offered in the region and to look at some longer term development of mountain bike and multi-day walk/ ride

opportunities.

A specific and detailed plan for the activities, locations and partnering organisations should be developed for

Council consideration and implementation as a considered strategy to grow this industry.

General principles include:

Identifying how all the elements link and the best prospects for expanding market share

Foster and maintain robust relationships with community organisations

Clarify and tailor support mechanisms – facilities, assistance, advice, training, funding

Build collaborative mechanisms for strong clubs/ groups should help the smaller/ weaker;

Multi-purpose facilities – sharing only – no single use(r) facilities



Build a robust program of maintenance/ rehabilitation of facilities so that the future costs/ liabilities

to these are well known

Support to clubs/ organisations to broaden their activity products – develop and deliver activity

programs that cater more for (older) adults.



10. APPENDICES



10.1. APPENDIX ONE- SPORT AND RECREATION POLICY

FRAMEWORK

10.1.1. OVERVIEW- POLICY VISION

Cassowary Coast Regional Council recognises that providing for their community’s physical, social and

economic health requires the sustainable provision of opportunities for leisure and the provision of parks and

open spaces that provide relief from the urban environment and allow residents and visitors to actively enjoy

outdoor environments

Council’s role is to ensure that:

Sufficient land is made available for Parks, Sporting Facilities and Recreation Facilities.

The development of parks, sporting facilities and recreation facilities provides sustainable

long term equitable access to the community.

Partnerships with community groups and other agencies are developed so that infrastructure

is used to capacity and duplication is minimised.

All communities have access to a minimum level of service

Partnerships with community groups and other agencies provide sport and recreation

opportunities through the development of events and activities.

Council’s implementation of this policy vision will be guided by the following values:

A commitment to access and equity

Social and cultural wellbeing

Support for innovation

Support for and partnerships with, Community groups

Leadership on environmental and economic sustainability

Sustainable asset management

10.1.2. POLICY IMPLEMENTATION

1. Council is responsible for ensuring the provision of sport and recreation opportunities for its communities through:

a. Ensuring sufficient land is made available for the development of Parks, Sporting Facilities and

Recreation Facilities.

b. Ensuring the development of parks, sporting facilities and recreation facilities occurs in such a way as to

provide sustainable long term access to the community.

c. Ensuring that all communities receive a minimum level of service in regard to access to opportunities

although service levels should be defined for different urban settings or community types.

d. Ensuring that a broad range of activities are available

e. Developing support mechanisms for community based initiatives to provide new or enhanced

opportunities.

2. The physical, social and economic health of all communities in the council area will be greatly enhanced by the

provision of sport and recreation opportunities. This means that council should “value” these benefits as a major

return from investment in sport and recreation. The costs to operate or support facilities and activities should be

measured in terms of the return in:



a. Health and Physical Activity Opportunity

b. Social cohesion and community integration

c. Economic activity and support of local economies

3. Investing in sport and recreation opportunities needs to consider the limited resources available to council and use

a range of resourcing options to maximise the Sport and Recreation Opportunity “return”. This can be done by:

a. Ensuring that all new projects supported by council are sustainable. Key tests are:

i. Financially viable in regard to operating costs

ii. Realistic assessment of potential use and planned around long term use

iii. Able to respond to changing demands and preferences in the community

iv. Environmentally responsible

b. Establishing strategic partnerships to maximise return on existing land and facility resources already

existing in the community.

c. Having a strategic approach to planning and implementing projects that leverages council investment

with external funding and can respond to opportunities for grants with “ready to go “ projects.

d. Providing oversight, expertise and logistical support to community groups developing proposals to

ensure that feasibility and business case analyses are objective and demonstrate financially viable

projects.

e. Ensuring that existing land and facility resources are managed so as to return maximum benefits across

the three areas (Physical activity, Social Cohesion and Economic benefit).

f. Creating an information rich environment for community groups, residents and visitors that ensures

resource sharing and awareness of opportunities



10.2. APPENDIX TWO – LEVEL OF SERVICE AND PROVISION

FRAMEWORK

The Minimum Level of Supply (MLS) was originally developed for the Cardwell Shire – Sport, Recreation and

Open Space Plan (2007) with regard to the differing needs and opportunities of residential areas within the

(then) Cardwell Shire, utilising feedback from Community Forums, stakeholder meetings, and surveys. An

analysis of the existing supply at the time also helped to inform the recommended standards. This MLS has

been reviewed and updated for application across the Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

In determining the residential areas of the regional Council area the following settings have been adopted:

Townships and coastal townships

Innisfail, Tully, Cardwell and Mission Beach/ Wongaling

Coastal villages Kurrimine, Tully Heads, Hull Heads, Flying Fish Point, Cowley Beach

Rural Villages Smaller townships and villages in rural areas

Council wide Whole of regional Council provision

Table 19: Minimum Level of Supply (MLS)

Function Residential/ Urban Setting

Recreation Parks 2.5 Ha/ 1000

Sporting Parks and Recreation Facilities 2 Ha/ 1000

Townships and Coastal Townships

District/ Destination Parks - with picnic facilities, BBQs play opportunities (within 2-5 Km). Also can include active recreation for youth. Minimum Area of 2 ha. Local Park with play opportunity, basic facilities and informal active opportunities (within 500m-1000m of residences). Minimum size of 0.5 Ha. Youth-focused activity node (basketball court, skate facility, kick about) provided as part of district park or larger local park (within 1-3 Km of residences). For Coastal Townships the expected emphasis is on protection of foreshore areas and esplanades as public space with recreation nodes developed in suitable locations.

District Sports Parks - Multi-user sports precinct/ fields provided to service a range of sports within Shire/ Township. Minimum of 2ha/ 1000 persons provided for field sports. Space for development of built facilities such as courts. 0.5 ha/ 1000. Indoor sports hall or covered sports court (within 5-10 km or 15-20 mins drive). Developed as part of sporting park.26 Sports areas to be within 10-15 minutes drive and several may be required to cater for all activities. Preferred development is for larger “precincts with a range of facilities and users sharing common infrastructure such as parking and access roads.

26. Built facilities such as covered courts can be developed in conjunction with schools as dual provision projects.



Function Residential/ Urban Setting

Recreation Parks 2.5 Ha/ 1000

Sporting Parks and Recreation Facilities 2 Ha/ 1000

Coastal Villages Village/ Destination Parks (as stand alone or as more developed foreshore and beach areas) - with picnic facilities, BBQs, play opportunities (within 2-5 Km). Also can include active recreation for youth. Minimum area of 2 ha. Youth-focused activity node (basketball court, skate facility, kick about) provided as part of district park or larger local park (within 1-3 Km of residences). For Coastal villages the expected emphasis is on protection of foreshore areas and esplanades as public space with recreation nodes developed in suitable locations

Village sports field - multi-use. Minimum of 2.5 ha (within 10-20 min drive or public access to school facilities-shared provision solution)

Rural Villages Village Park with play and picnic facilities, BBQs and toilets. Should include active informal space (within village and accessible by walking/ riding). Minimum area of 2 Ha.

Village sports fields - multi-use. Minimum of 3 ha (within 10-20 min drive or public access to school facilities).

Council Wide Destination Parks on river, beaches, scenic locations or similar. BBQs and other facilities. Usually associated with a significant natural feature (within 1 hour drive). Roadside Rest Areas/ Highway parks provided in association with each township/ village. May also (as opportunity presents) provide “trail head” access to active outdoor opportunities and water based recreation (e.g. regional trails, beaches).

Major Sports Facility as the Region’s “premier” oval or similar sport specific facility. Race Track/ Show Grounds as main venue for Region events.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council...2014/03/13 · Overview- Policy Vision ..... 62 10.1.2. Policy...

Documents

Transcript of Cassowary Coast Regional Council...2014/03/13 · Overview- Policy Vision ..... 62 10.1.2. Policy...