Goal scored in quest to upgrade ageing sports hub

New plans are underway for a major sporting hub on the Gold Coast with thousands of members.

Sep 10, 2026, updated Sep 10, 2026
Community consultation for an upgrade to the Mallawa Sports Complex at Palm Beach has officially opened. Picture: via Facebook
Community consultation for an upgrade to the Mallawa Sports Complex at Palm Beach has officially opened. Picture: via Facebook

A sporting hub would get a major revamp, under new plan currently being considered on the Gold Coast.

Gold Coast City Council has asked for residents’ input on not-yet costed upgrade to the aging Mallawa Sports Club in Palm Beach.

According to council documents, upgrades to drainage, parking, traffic flow, lighting and safety at 16.74 ha site – which is more than 50 years old – were the key focus.

Acting Mayor Mark Hammel said the complex is “an important community asset” and the largest sports complex in the area.

Community consultation for an upgrade to the Mallawa Sports Complex at Palm Beach has officially opened. Picture: via Facebook

He said the council was looking to develop a long-term plan for the area.

“We want to hear from the community about their current and future needs for the precinct,” he said.

“This feedback will help us understand future demand and guide infrastructure investment at the complex.”

The sports precinct, which sits close to the Palm Beach canals, has than 10,000 active members across multiple clubs.

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The site includes sports fields, cricket pitches, netball courts, a playground and an off-leash dog area.

Community consultation for an upgrade to the Mallawa Sports Complex at Palm Beach has officially opened. Picture: via Facebook

Previously residents had complained about traffic, parking and access issues around the grounds.

In February, a group of e-bike riders was filmed executing wheelies on the courts and making rude gestures to local residents.

Speaking at the time, a Gold Coast City Council spokesperson said they were aware of the “issues” at Mallawa Sports complex, which is also a target for graffiti vandals.

Community consultation is open until Monday, September 28.

A review is expected in October, with a community engagement report to be published late in the year.

Future designs and a delivery plan will be subject to funding, community priorities and project approvals next year, a council spokesperson said.

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