The Somerset Regional Council has applied for more than $5.6 million in federal funding to expand the Fernvale Sports Park and upgrade the Lowood Swimming Pool in the Somerset region. The applications, announced at a council meeting on 25 February 2026, include $1.6 million to add four new netball courts in Fernvale and $4.05 million for major improvements to the pool in Lowood.
The expansion of the Fernvale Sports Park would double the number of netball courts to eight, allowing the region to host its own competitions for the first time. Currently, local players from the Somerset Storm Netball Club can only use the park for training and must travel to other cities to play matches.
At the Lowood Swimming Pool, the council plans to build an enclosed program pool with disabled access to support year-round swimming lessons and health treatments. This project follows election promises made by Shayne Neumann MP, Federal Member for Blair, in April 2025 to improve community facilities through a federal infrastructure program.
Council is also seeking $1.62 million in state grants to build a new footpath along Lowood Minden Road. This path would provide a safer walking route between Lowood and Tarampa State School for local students and families.
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