Ipswich City Council has announced a three-year partnership with the Brisbane Lions, aimed at fostering the development of female athletes and aspiring sports administrators in the Ipswich region.
This collaboration is set to bring numerous benefits to the local community, including increased visibility for Ipswich at Brisbane Lions’ home games, access to AFLW players for community programs, and the hosting of state and national sporting events at Brighton Homes Arena.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that it capitalises on the Brisbane Lions AFLW team’s home base at Brighton Homes Arena and strengthens Ipswich’s status as the Lions’ headquarters.
“This exciting partnership will establish formal development pathways for future female athletes and sport administrators through the Lions Institute of Business and Sport, in collaboration with TAFE Queensland,” Mayor Harding said.
Over the next three years, the partnership will see the Brisbane Lions support Ipswich City Council’s advocacy for key city projects, while also hosting major sporting events in the area.
One highlight of the agreement is Ipswich taking over match day presenting rights at a Brisbane Lions AFL home game at the Gabba.
Additionally, the city will host fan days in Ipswich following the Brisbane Lions AFLW team’s successes.
The partnership is expected to deliver significant economic benefits to Ipswich.
Mayor Harding highlighted the impact of major events and competitions, enhanced community programming within the council’s Active and Healthy initiative, and access to the Brisbane Lions’ corporate network.
“This is an incredible partnership that will bring more professional-level sport to Ipswich and create opportunities for events like the inaugural Ipswich Mini Multicultural Games,” she said.
Brisbane Lions CEO Greg Swann emphasised the Lions’ commitment to working closely with Ipswich City Council to make the precinct a year-round attraction for sport, community, and education.
He encouraged residents to visit Brighton Homes Arena and support the Lions AFLW team, which kicks off its season on 1 September.
“For young kids to have this venue and team in their own backyard is an incredible opportunity,” Swann said.
The partnership will also benefit local clubs like the Ipswich Eagles, whose president, Scott Humphreys, welcomed the support for women’s and girls’ teams.
“Having elite Brisbane Lions AFLW players offering community health and fitness training in Ipswich is an opportunity our club members will eagerly take up,” he said.
