The Redcliffe Dolphins dream of a stadium at Dolphin Oval took another step to becoming a reality on Sunday when Prime Minister Tony Abbott pledged $4m in funding for the project.
Mr Abbott was on hand at Dolphin Oval yesterday to make the announcement during the halftime break of the Intrust Super Club match against the Souths Logan Magpies.
Upon arrival the Prime Minister visited corporate guests of the football club including sponsors, Directors and club staff.
A media address was made from the top of one of the iconic hills of Dolphin Oval where Mr Abbott informed local media and national television groups he was about to make it public knowledge that the Dolphins have been successful in applying for funding.
The club had asked for $6 million in funding, after securing $3 million from Moreton Bay Regional Council.
Dolphins chief executive Tony Murphy said the club was grateful for the $4 million in Federal Government funding.
"We're really happy with that," Mr Murphy said.
The Prime Minister made time to visit with rugby league supporters around the grounds before the halftime siren blew.
President Bob Jones, Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Allan Sutherland and MP Luke Howarth joined Mr Abbott on stage at the halftime break.
Addressing the crowd Mr Abbott said it was an investment in jobs, growth and the local community.
"Already, the Dolphins precinct is the second biggest employer on the Redcliffe Peninsula," he said.
The upgrade will generate hundreds of additional jobs - not only construction positions but also new, ongoing jobs in hospitality, marketing, cleaning and maintenance.
"The new stadium will be able to accommodate 10,000 people. There will be covered seating, upgraded change rooms and a recreation area for schools and junior player camps.
"Sports teams and their fans won't be the only beneficiaries. The upgrade is part of a long-term plan to create a precinct on Brisbane's northside that will be able to host concerts and trade shows."
Mr Howarth said: "This Commonwealth funding is a big win for jobs, small business, tourism and the local community.
It was hard to secure but with the support of local people I am pleased it has come through as it will help our region".
The announcement comes after submissions for federal government funding from the Redcliffe District Rugby League Football Club.
Since the end of 2014, a public campaign by local newspaper the Redcliffe & Bayside Herald was taken up by the Federal Member for Petrie Luke Howarth - both long time supporters of the Dolphins.
First stage of construction is set to begin following the end of the current season.
