WESTERN Spirit Football Club is back at full strength at Camira Recreation Reserve, with newly rebuilt change rooms and facilities officially completed following an arson attack that destroyed the club’s original amenities.
Deputy Mayor and Division 2 Councillor Nicole Jonic said the rebuild was essential after the reserve’s facilities were lost to fire.
“The original demountable change rooms, built in 2003, were destroyed in a senseless act of arson in December 2023,” Cr Jonic said.
“This rebuild has replaced change rooms for home and away teams, a referee room, showers, toilets, and a connecting pathway to the main clubhouse.
“Anyone who has played sport at any level knows how vital these facilities are, so it was important that Western Spirit FC had new amenities to support its popular club.”
Division 2 Councillor Paul Tully said most of the rebuild was covered by insurance, with Council contributing additional improvements.
Western Spirit FC president AJ Varkevisser said the completion marked a significant milestone for the club.
“Two years ago, our home was destroyed by arson, and since then more than 500 players have trained here with temporary toilets and no change rooms,” he said.
“As Football Queensland’s Community Club of the Year, a Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Lifestyle Award winner, and Ipswich Sports Awards finalist, we’re proud of the role we play in this community.
“The completion of these facilities, and the further enhancements planned, is a testament to our club’s ambition and to Ipswich City Council’s commitment to community sport. We’re incredibly grateful for their support in rebuilding a place our whole community can call home.”
