Planning for the future at Rob Akers Reserve
Published 15 November 2024
City of Moreton Bay today endorsed the Master Plan for Rob Akers Reserve in Strathpine that will guide key improvements to the facility into the future.
Operating as a popular sport and recreation precinct for more than 40 years, the plan will guide future development and improvements to better meet the needs of the growing community, now and in the years to come.
Mayor Peter Flannery said Council is focused on providing the City’s growing population with the infrastructure and outdoor facilities to live healthy and happy lifestyles.
“As one of the fastest growing cities in Australia, we must plan ahead to provide the necessary park infrastructure to accommodate growth and meet demands,” he said.
“The Master Plan for Rob Akers Reserve focuses on upgrading existing infrastructure while preserving and enhancing current uses and supporting the community of users.
“It provides a well-considered balance of active sports fields, new and revitalised play areas, and engaging informal open space areas for public enjoyment and acts as a guide to future development and improvements.
“As the home of the Pine Rivers Swans AFL Club, the plan proposes restoring the second field to accommodate more games and installing appropriate lighting for more evening matches.
“In addition to its sporting functions, Rob Akers Reserve offers informal recreation opportunities for visitors and local residents, including play areas, fitness spaces, and an off-leash dog park.
“This is why the plan also looks at upgrading the dog training area to support day and night activity for the Pine Rivers Dog Training Club, and introducing new dedicated play areas, shelters, seating and BBQ areas for the wider Strathpine community.
“Designated areas for future koala habitat planting have been considered to ensure Pine Rivers Koala Care Inc. and other environmental groups can continue to invest in habitat improvement at the site.
“The plan also considers the surrounding pedestrian network and makes recommendations to improve pedestrian connectivity.”
Councillor Jim Moloney (Div 8) said the Master Plan would not be possible without the support and feedback from the community.
“I’d like to thank all the sporting and recreational clubs, environmental groups and local users for their input and guidance,” he said.
“This is a fantastic plan for Rob Akers Reserve that responds to community requests for more active lifestyle options for both sport and informal recreation opportunities while protecting the environment.”
“I’m also pleased that we were recently able to upgrade the Pine Rivers Swans clubhouse and changerooms thanks to $3.1 million joint funding from City of Moreton Bay, State Government and AFL Queensland.
“Since then, the club experienced a huge boost in participation and members, particularly among female players.
“Now that the Master Plan is endorsed, and we’ve conducted robust technical investigations to support the plan, Council can advocate for external funding to deliver key infrastructure sooner.”
The Rob Akers Reserve Master Plan is anticipated to be delivered in stages and is subject to the availability of funding. Find out more about the Master Plan on our website.