A vision for one of Brisbane’s most popular sporting precincts has been unveiled with Brisbane City Council confirming a new long-term agreement with Brothers Rugby Club on Tuesday 13 August. Brothers Rugby Club released the long-term masterplan for Crosby Park in Albion which would help create the city’s newest sporting and lifestyle precinct.
Established in 1905, Brothers Rugby Club is one of the oldest active football clubs in Queensland and one of the country’s most eminent rugby clubs. The Club has championed community engagement in sport through world-first inclusive programs for players with learning and perceptual disabilities. Brothers has occupied Crosby Park for 73 years and over 40 per cent of its playing members are female.
“Whilst this extensive core rugby offering provides a vibrant hub for the local community on a range of participation, involvement and viewing perspectives, Brothers is firmly established as arguably the most central focal point for Brisbane’s inner north-east community – whether this be as a sporting and social venue for local schools, businesses and community groups, or as a leisure/recreational outlet for the general public,” Brothers Rugby Club President Geoff Rodgers said.
Following confirmation of a new 25-year lease, works will begin to build a new indoor sport and recreation centre, increase car parking and introduce learn-to-swim classes for local families. Early works were completed in 2020 and included upgrades to the playing surface, drainage, and lighting across the Jack Ross and Des Hogan Ovals, with tiered seating and sun shelters completed in 2021. The new long-term lease will enable Brothers to progress the next phase of works for the sporting precinct.
A new community clubhouse, café, gym, function room, public seating and change rooms to cater for the growth of female players will follow in the next phases. The final stage will help deliver more allied health services to benefit local residents and users of the sporting precinct.
Readers also enjoyed our story about Victoria Park Pump Track & Common
