Fence delivery future-proofs ongoing sports action at The Green

A 500m weather-proof fence has been delivered to the city’s northern suburbs, with Townsville City Council wrapping up works on restoring the perimeter boundary of The Green sports field in Burdell.

Functionality is first for the new asset, with the powder white galvanised steel fence replacing the damaged former white picket fence that enclosed the site.

The Australian and Queensland governments have provided $125,480 for the fence under the jointly funded Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Funding was allocated through the Sport and Recreation Recovery Grants Program in relation to the January/February 2025 Tropical Low Event.

Council contributed an additional $40,000 in order undertake a tree root assessment and install around 300m of root barrier, designed to protect the playing field from thirsty trees encroaching on the green in search of water.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the project showed how disaster recovery funding could deliver lasting benefits for local communities.

“This investment is about more than replacing what was damaged – it’s about making sure communities like Townsville are better prepared and more resilient for the future,” Minister McBain said.

“The Albanese Government is supporting councils across Queensland to rebuild infrastructure that can withstand severe weather and help communities get back to normal sooner.

“Facilities like The Green play an important role in keeping communities active and connected, and we are proud to be working with the Queensland Government in support of projects that help local sport bounce back stronger after disasters.”

Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said The Green was a vital sporting hub for families, clubs and volunteers in expanding Northern Beaches region of Townsville.

“The Sport and Recreation Recovery Grant Program is not just about repairing damage, it’s about rebuilding smarter and more resilient facilities,” Mr Chiesa said.

“By rebuilding smarter and more resilient, we’re helping ensure local sport can get back on the field faster.

“This upgrade at The Green strengthens the field’s perimeter and helps ensure that the community can safely continue playing sport once dangerous weather conditions pass.”

Divisional councillor Brodie Phillips said the works would enhance The Green for the benefit of local sporting groups, as well as the wider community.

“The Green is an important community asset that is well-utilised by the Northern Beaches Suns AFL Club and the Northern Beaches Cricket Club, both of which are down here regularly for training sessions and game days,” Cr Phillips said.

“These improvements will help ensure the facility continues to meet the needs of players and spectators for years to come.

“Council is committed to maintaining high-quality sporting facilities across Townsville, and this project is a great example of that commitment in action.”

Townsville Mayor Nick Dametto thanked the Australian and Queensland governments for funding the project, which was prioritised as part of Council’s commitment to maintaining safe and attractive public infrastructure.

“In addition, this project is part of Council’s commitment to fostering a healthy and active lifestyle for our residents,” Councillor Dametto said.

“Investing in community infrastructure like The Green benefits people of all ages and ensures our suburbs have the facilities they need to thrive.

“As we well know, the northern suburbs of Townsville are a hub of growth for our city, so we need to make sure we are investing and prioritising works accordingly.”

Northern Beaches SUNS AFC President Mark Boardman welcomed the ongoing support for the club.

"Our club continues to grow, with strong levels of participation, especially in Auskick and junior football,” Mr Boardman said.

"We are always striving for new and better facilities that continue to attract new players and their families to our club.

"We look forward to continuing to work with Council and the State and Federal governments on our other future growth and expansion plans."