Bribie Island’s junior AFL club’s new $1.8 million change rooms now mean separate facilities for female players.
Moreton Bay City Council says the facility features two unisex disability-compliant change rooms for the Bribie Island Bulldogs hosting away teams at the island’s sports complex.
(The Bulldogs just took out the U13 Girls Division 2 Brisbane grand final last weekend.)
The facility includes cubicle showers for player privacy, public amenities, a storage area, and a disability-compliant toilet and shower.
AFL Queensland contributed $50,000 to the $1.8m project.
Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery says the new facility will allow the Bulldogs to boost an already growing number of girls playing the sport.
“There is increasing demand for fit-for-purpose sports facilities to support women’s participation,” he said.
“We know that Australian football continues to experience strong growth in the city.”
BRIBIE BOOST FOR FEMALE SPORTS
Division 1 Councillor Brooke Savige says the new facility is a welcome boost given that the old block was built in 1989.
“With junior numbers growing every year, I’m excited for what the future holds for the women’s game at Bribie.”
Cr Savige believes the new change rooms will prove useful for non-Australian football events and earn more revenue.
“The installation of this modern facility now opens up the possibility of additional revenue streams generated through future venue hire,” she says.
Bribie Island Bulldogs President Dannielle McGrath says the timing of the new building is critical for them with nearly 70% of their membership female and growing.
“It means that visiting female teams now have access to modern, private and secure change rooms that meet the standards expected at all levels of the game,” she says.
“It’s a massive step forward in showing that, as a club, we respect every player who visits or plays here.
“Players of different genders will no longer have to share a single change room, which might seem like a small thing but it’s hugely important for young people to feel safe and respected in sport.
“This is about future-proofing girls’ participation in AFL on the island; we’re creating an environment that says: you belong here, and we’re ready for your future.”
McGrath also highlighted the importance of disability-compliant toilets and showers.
“While our club has always been welcoming to our members and supporters and their diverse needs, these new change rooms take that commitment even further,” she said.
“They provide a space where players who may have previously felt awkward or uncomfortable can now feel at ease. It’s about supporting their dignity and ensuring they have the same level of support and comfort as everyone else.”
Head of AFL Queensland Trisha Squires was thrilled the club had a new facility.
“Since 2023, Auskick has grown by 156% and junior Australian football is up 33% year-on-year with over 220 players participating in these programs this year.”
She says female participation have soared year-on-year with a 25% increase in registrations this year.
OTHER BRIBIE NEWS: State funding support for Bribie Island projects
