The recent purchase of the Northern Pride League site in Mooroobool by Cairns Regional Council is a score and a win for the future of sport in the region, according to Mayor Val Schier.

Cr Schier said securing the site for the future offers the residents  a wonderful space for sport and recreation.

“Council’s successful negotiation with the Pride for the acquisition of the site was a coup for the entire community,” she said.

“Developers had certainly demonstrated interest in the site for possible housing.  Council officers have been working closely with Pride representatives since October this year in order to come up with a deal that ensures the land would remain reserved for sport and recreation.”

The property, which has also been the home of the Kangaroos Rugby League Club for more than 50 years, is comprised of a club house, car parking and playing fields. 

Council endorsed the purchase of the club site on Wednesday at its last Ordinary meeting of the year. Chairman of Northern Pride, Mr Bob Fowler said the club had worked with Council to preserve the area as "greenspace" with the intention that the broader community would benefit from the deal.

“Essentially we collaborated because of our common interest in the future of sport in the region,” Mr Fowler said.

“The Pride made an altruistic decision when it sold the site to Council for considerably less than what we had been offered by two separate local developers. 

"The club initially purchased the facility to preserve its purpose as a sporting and recreation facility. Our preference was to ensure it continued to serve the community in that way.

"All negotiations with Council staff were positive and carried out in good faith and we believe this is the very best outcome for all.”