Construction Begins on Talobilla Park’s Modern Softball Clubhouse

Redcliffe’s softball community has marked an important moment in November 2025, with a ceremonial sod-turn officially signalling the start of work on a long-anticipated new softball clubhouse at Talobilla Park in Kippa-Ring.


Read: Talobilla Park to Become Home of $4.8M Clubhouse for Redcliffe Softball Community


The $4.8 million project has been described by local leaders as a major step forward for the region’s sporting scene. The development is intended to give the rapidly growing Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association the kind of modern, accessible space it has long needed, while paving the way for bigger competitions and community events.

The clubhouse will include dedicated change rooms, an umpire’s room, accessible amenities, a first-aid space, an office, a clubroom, internal storage and a multipurpose kitchen. These features will make the facility suitable not only for club events, but also for larger tournaments requiring inclusive and high-quality infrastructure.

Photo credit: Wiyada Korte/Google Maps

Council representatives spoke at the ceremony about the significance of the upgrade, noting that the city already attracts high-level tournaments and is set to host the Women’s Softball World Cup Finals in 2027. They said the new facility will strengthen that reputation and give local athletes, coaches and volunteers a professional-grade environment to work in.

Federal representatives echoed that sentiment, pointing to the project as an example of governments working together to support local communities. They highlighted the role sport plays in creating connection and opportunities, and said the investment through the Thriving Suburbs Program reflects a commitment to helping suburbs continue to grow and flourish.

Photo credit: Facebook/Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association

 

For the Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association — now home to around 700 members — the milestone carries a sense of pride and relief. Club president Carrie Te Wani said the upgrade represents a turning point, giving the association space to grow and ensuring volunteers and players have the facilities they deserve. She emphasised the club’s gratitude for the support provided and said members are eager to see the finished building in use.

Construction is expected to progress quickly, with council indicating that work will continue through next year. Under current plans, the new Talobilla Park Softball Clubhouse is due for completion in 2026.


Read: Redcliffe Prepares for 2027 Women’s Softball World Cup in Olympic Lead-Up


For a sport that has expanded swiftly in Redcliffe and throughout Moreton Bay, the build marks more than just bricks and mortar. It signals confidence in the future of local softball and recognition of the community that keeps it thriving, from long-time volunteers to the new players picking up a glove for the first time.

Published 21-November-2025

Two Rising Softball Stars from Redcliffe Set for World Cup Battle

Two young Redcliffe softballers are preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime, as they get ready to represent Australia at the World Baseball Softball Confederation World Cup in Italy.


Read: Redcliffe Softball Community Scores Major Clubhouse Upgrade


Mackenzie Emonson, 14, and Leilani Malo, 15, have earned their spots in the national squad after impressive performances for Queensland at the National Under-16 Girls’ Championships in Perth earlier this year. Their selection for the Australian team was confirmed in February, and preparations have been building ever since.

 

The World Cup, which will be held in Milan from June 27 to July 5, will see the Redcliffe duo compete against some of the strongest softball nations, including the USA, Canada, Japan, and Mexico. Australia, alongside American Samoa, qualified through the Oceania region and will face off against 11 other teams in Legnano and Caronno Pertusella.

Photo credit: World Baseball Softball Confederation

For both Mackenzie and Leilani, this tournament marks the pinnacle of their sporting journeys so far. The pair admitted they were surprised but thrilled to have been selected for the World Cup squad. Leilani said she expects to feel nervous before the opening match but believes she will settle into the tournament once the first game is behind her. Kenz, meanwhile, is focusing on giving her all on the field and hopes the nerves will fade as she plays.

Leilani, who now lives in Burpengary and attends Deception Bay State High School, began her sporting life playing tee-ball in New Zealand before switching to softball after moving to Australia in 2017. A former rugby player, she made the decision to concentrate on softball after an injury steered her away from contact sports. She now plays primarily as a pitcher.

Kenz, a proud Redcliffe local and student at Earnshaw State College in Banyo, also got her start with tee-ball at the age of six. She joined the Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association in 2016 and has since developed her skills in the outfield.


Read: Redcliffe Padres: Nation’s Largest Baseball Club Driven by Local Families


While Italy is firmly in their sights, both players have also continued their state ambitions, recently helping Redcliffe finish third at the 2025 Under-16 Girls’ State Championships in Toowoomba. The tournament served as a stepping stone as they eye positions in the 2026 Queensland team.

With international experience now beckoning, these Redcliffe talents are poised to make their mark on the global stage.

Published 28-April-2025