Dozens of athletes, coaches, officials and volunteers are in the running for $2,000 in prize money as Council recognises outstanding contributions to community competitions in the 2021 Ipswich Sports Awards.
The eight awards categories will see gongs go to juniors, seniors and off-field contributors alike at a gala ceremony on 29 October.
Mayor Teresa Harding thanked all nominees for their dedication to grassroots sport during both a challenging and exciting time for Ipswich athletes.
“Our city is Queensland’s sporting heartland, and our dedicated sportspeople and administrators have built the community culture that makes Ipswich such a great place to play,” Mayor Harding said.
“It is important to celebrate the community’s strength and resilience, and this year’s finalists are representing an incredible range of sports and codes from long distance running, figure ice skating and swimming to touch football, rifle shooting and karting.
“Council is committed to supporting local sporting clubs and delivering high-quality facilities right across the city as we prepare to welcome and nurture world-class athletes for the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics.”
Community, Culture, Arts and Sport Committee chair Councillor Andrew Fechner said the shortlist recognises the breadth and talent of the local sporting community from its youngest participants to its seasoned veterans.
“These special people, teams, and organisations help make Ipswich community sport more fun, inclusive, and able to nourish world-beating athletes,” Cr Fechner said.
“All finalists should be rightly proud of their achievements, especially while community sport continues to operate under COVID-19 health restrictions.”
The awards acknowledge the athletes and sporting community who have rallied together and persevered in the most testing of circumstances.
For more information on the Ipswich Sports Awards visit: Ipswich.qld.gov.au/sportsawards.