Through sheer persistence, consistent on field performances and a clear strategy, Sunshine Coast’s Hinterland Blues have been rewarded with elevation from the QFA Division 2 to QFA Division 1 HART Sport Cup, starting from season 2023.
The Sunshine Coast based club has spent the past five years working diligently on strategy to improve the club’s facilities and infrastructure, junior’s pathway and recruitment for their senior sides.
They put forward their formal elevation pitch late last month to AFL Queensland and on Monday afternoon, Joshua Rhodes, AFL Queensland’s QFA Competition Manager informed them they were successful.
“We have seen Hinterland Blues come such a long way and they have earned this opportunity to be elevated,” Rhodes said.
“They have a clear strategy on their coaching succession plan and on the field they have been able to bring a level of consistently with their performances.
“Off field they are in a healthy position financially and their facilities and infrastructure are in a good shape.
“We look forward to seeing what they can achieve in 2023.”
Hinterland’s President Bruce Bell thanked AFL Queensland for the opportunity.
“We have been working hard on a strategic plan for five years for overall club advancement,” Bell said.
“Four or five years ago we were almost bankrupt but we are now steady finically.
“We have reached a stage infrastructure wise by 2023 where we will have a new clubhouse, new lights, new scoreboard and new coaches’ boxes that will all be first class.
“Paired with on field depth and player quality we believe we are ready for the new challenge.
“We think it’s really important to strive to play at the highest level possible. Our playing group are hungry and want to test themselves.
“Thank you so much to AFL Queensland for providing us with this chance.”
Picture by Sunshine Valley Gazette.
