Anew $9 million sporting precinct has opened in Providence, giving residents of South Ripley and the wider Ripley Valley region access to new cricket and AFL facilities as the area continues to grow.
Stockland has officially opened Goolpahjo (Harry Thompson Senior) Park, the first dedicated cricket venue in Providence and South Ripley. The facility includes a full-size AFL field, a competition-standard turf cricket wicket block, four cricket training nets, sports lighting, spectator seating, amenities and onsite parking.
Designed to support local clubs, training sessions and community events, the precinct has been built to Queensland Cricket and AFL Queensland standards. Ipswich City Council has appointed the Central Kookaburras as the first summer cricket leaseholder, bringing organised community sport to the new venue.
The opening comes as Providence expands towards a planned population of around 20,000 residents, while the broader Ripley Valley region is forecast to reach about 131,000 people. The new facilities are expected to help meet growing demand for accessible sporting spaces close to where people live.
Stockland Senior Development Manager Brock Jones said the precinct was part of ongoing investment in community facilities at Providence.
“As Providence continues to grow, investments like Goolpahjo (Harry Thompson Senior) Park are helping ensure residents have access to the sporting and recreation facilities they need close to home,” Mr Jones said.
“Together with the community’s existing network, which includes more than 10 parks, playgrounds and recreation spaces, it will play an important role in encouraging participation in grassroots sport and creating more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, strengthen local connections and support healthy, active lifestyles.”
The official opening event brought together Federal MP Shayne Neumann, State MP Lance McCallum, State MP for Ipswich West Wendy Bourne, Ipswich City Councillors, Traditional Owners, local sporting organisations and community members.
Families attending the event took part in cricket activities delivered by Queensland Cricket, met members of the Central Kookaburras and Brisbane Heat mascot, and enjoyed live entertainment and a Welcome to Country by the Nunukul Yuggera group.
The precinct’s name, Goolpahjo (Harry Thompson Senior) Park, recognises Yuggera man Harry Thompson Senior and his sporting contributions, while acknowledging the continuing connection of the Yuggera people to Country.
Mr Neumann said the new facility would provide valuable support for a growing community.
“Community infrastructure is vital for fast-growing areas like Ripley Valley, so it’s fantastic to see Stockland investing in these facilities, supporting grassroots sport and healthy lifestyles, while recognising Ipswich’s cultural heritage. It’s a wonderful community asset,” he said.
Although the precinct is now open, the playing surface will continue to establish over the coming months before regular competitions begin. This will allow the turf to reach the standard required for ongoing community use.
The facility also features a water harvesting and reuse system designed to support irrigation needs while reducing reliance on drinking water.
Located off Harmony Crescent in Providence, South Ripley, Goolpahjo (Harry Thompson Senior) Park adds another sporting facility to a community that already includes parks, playgrounds and recreation areas as part of its planned growth.
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