A Logan City Councillor has committed much needed funding to upgrade sporting facilities at a Logan City oval for an AFL club well known locally for it’s community spirit.
Division three councillor Mindy Russell delivered the news in last weeks City Lifestyle Council Committee meeting.
“Springwood Pumas are kicking goals,” Cr Russell said.
“They’ve demonstrated that a positive community focused club culture can trump dollars, managing over the years to attract quality players and coaches away from better equipped clubs who can afford to pay them.
“They’ve certainly won their fair share of premierships. But their greatest achievements have been off the field.
“Over the past 14 years the club has provided apprenticeships for 36 young people and provided employment for 15 others.
“This year they’ll hold their fifth annual indigenous round. The event was described as the best indigenous round celebration outside of the AFL and has twice been nominated for the Logan Sporting Event of the year.
“Unfortunately though heart and soul can only trump dollars for so long. Lowe Oval is in urgent need of upgraded facilities.”
Cr Russell said it broke her heart to hear the team missed out on a state opportunity because of the facilities not being ‘up to scratch’.
She has secured $50,000 for the Springwood Pumas.
“I have committed funds to upgrade facilities at Lowe Oval for the Springwood Australian Football Club,” she said.
“It will secure new goal posts, back nets, and fencing.”
Cr Russell said they would be working hard to try and ensure at least the new goal posts are delivered by the start of the season in early April.
Logan City politician, member for Rankin Jim Chalmers, took to social media to express his excitement.
“Great stuff,” he said.
“Well done Councillor Mindy Russell and Springwood Pumas.”
The Springwood Pumas shared the news on it’s Facebook page and said Cr Russell was doing ‘great work’.
A Logan City local came out in the comments section to support the club, and said their kids used to play for the team.
“Springwood pumas are awesome, they certainly punch above their weight, they are very passionate about AFL, have some great people as club members and deserve any help that they can get,” the Logan City local said.
“They are like many junior clubs trying to survive, they are a community club, and certainly an asset to this city.
“It is great to see someone else supporting them, they are worthy, ask any child that has played as a Springwood Puma. And all of those children will admit to being proud of where they came from. Go Pumas.”
