From grassroots sport to early childhood education, two Ipswich organisations are creating stronger and more sustainable community spaces thanks to Queensland Country Bank Good for Good Community Grant funding.
The Marburg Mt Crosby Thunder Cricket Club and Roderick Street Community Kindergarten are among the recipients of our 2025 program.
For the Marburg Mt Crosby Thunder Cricket Club, the grant will fund the installation of a permanent shade shelter at the Tivoli Sports Complex, helping protect players, volunteers and families from the elements during training sessions, games and community events.
Treasurer Leesa Lewis said the funding would make a significant difference for the growing club and the many sporting groups who use the facility.
"Currently our venue has very limited sheltered space, which means players, officials and spectators can be exposed to extreme heat and rain during games," Ms Lewis said.
"Installing a permanent shade shelter will provide a safe and comfortable environment for our young athletes and improve the overall experience for everyone using the complex."
The club also boasts an impressive history, with around 40–45 premierships across junior and senior teams since the early 1970s, including about 15 premierships since the Marburg and Mount Crosby clubs merged to form Thunder. Former player Sam Truloff, who made his Sheffield Shield debut for Queensland in 2016, also began his cricket journey with the club.
Meanwhile, Roderick Street Community Kindergarten has used its grant to install solar panels and an inverter, helping the much-loved early learning centre reduce energy costs while teaching the next generation about sustainability.
Educating Ipswich children for more than 50 years, the kindergarten is surrounded by a large leafy playground and prides itself on offering a warm, home-like learning environment. Its two-day-a-week program is free for eligible families and remains in high demand.
Kindergarten Director Collette Doyle said the solar installation had already begun making a difference.
"This project has been on our Quality Improvement Plan for a number of years, but we simply didn’t have the funds to make it happen," Ms Doyle said.
"Since the solar panels were installed in January, we've already started to see a reduction in our electricity costs."
"It also gives us a wonderful opportunity to talk with the children about sustainability and how we can all play a role in looking after the planet."
Steven Ayers, Area Manager Ipswich, said, “These grants are about backing the people who help communities thrive.”
“The Marburg Mt Crosby Thunder Cricket Club and Roderick Street Community Kindergarten both create spaces where local families come together, whether it’s on the cricket field or in the classroom. We’re proud to support projects that will benefit Ipswich families for years to come.”
Learn more about Good For Good Community Grants.