Cathy Freeman Backs Stage 2 Development Of Great Barrier Reef Arena

Cathy Freeman OAM, the iconic Australian Olympic champion born in Mackay has recently expressed her strong support for the planned Stage 2 development at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
She highlighted the critical need for international-standard training and competition facilities for athletes in regional Queensland.
The Stage 2 development at the Great Barrier Reef Arena will feature accessible accommodation and amenities, allowing athletes and school students from regional, state and interstate areas to fully utilise the sports facilities. This expansion will also attract and host more carnivals, camps and clinics, providing a significant boost to the regional visitor economy.
As a proud advocate for regional athletes and the future of sports in Queensland, Cathy Freeman OAM said, “As we look ahead from Paris 2024 to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Queensland, I am delighted to add my full support for the plans for the new multi-sport regional training centre at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay. 
“It is so important for young and aspiring athletes from all over Central and Northern Queensland to have facilities of international standard in their own backyard that can help them realise their full potential and achieve their dreams. 
“In particular, the inclusion of accommodation facilities for participants of all abilities from remote and rural communities is vital to allowing everyone to benefit from these opportunities.”
With deep ties to the Mackay region and a lifelong passion for advancing opportunities in sports, Freeman expressed that her connection with the Mackay region and State remains strong and that she is thrilled to see that this initiative has the support of so many people across so many different sports. 
“This development at Great Barrier Reef Arena will truly be a game changer for the community and an incredible asset for all athletes, sports participants and future stars,” Freeman remarked.
The new accommodation will also further support training and competition for both Australian and international athletes and teams in preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Great Barrier Reef Arena General Manager Adrian Young said, “Cathy is not only an Australian Olympic legend but a local legend who is loved in our region.
“It will be of huge value to athletes from all areas of Queensland, providing them with greater opportunity to participate in multi-day camps, clinics and carnivals across a range of sports, including cricket, basketball, AFL and netball.
“Together with the incredible new indoor training and competition facilities Stage 2 will provide, it will make Great Barrier Reef Arena one of the most well equipped and attractive sports destinations in regional Australia.
“We are delighted to have her encouragement and support for the further development of the Great Barrier Reef Arena precinct.”

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Olympic champion Cathy Freeman backs game-changing sports development in Mackay.

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