Sporting Wheelies Plans to Build Australia’s First Para Clubhouse in Milton

Did you know that the charitable organization Sporting Wheelies is planning to build a state-of-the-art sports and recreation centre, Australia’s first Para Clubhouse, in Milton?



Submitted in January 2023, the development application filed with Economic Development Queensland (MID-0123-0669) for the proposed project includes indoor courts, an indoor sports centre, office space, a gym, and allied health facilities. 

The development will also involve the internal fit-out of the office and warehouse spaces and a minor reconfiguration of the car parking area to cater to accessibility needs.

The project will retain the existing Umart store and provide 19 car parking spaces, with four spaces dedicated to people with disabilities and six extra-wide spaces.

The Para Clubhouse is expected to have a significant impact on the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities. 

Photo Credit: Open Architecture Studio

Open Architecture Studio designed the clubhouse to benefit people with disabilities, enabling them to live healthier and more active lives. As part of the proposed sports and entertainment centre, Sporting Wheelies’ current headquarters, which are now located in Albion, would be moved to the new structure. 

“The proposed use for the indoor sport and recreation use, and ancillary office space and allied health facilities, is consistent with the use adjoining the northern boundary of the subject site. “

“Further, it is anticipated that there will be limited impact on the amenity of adjoining properties given the surrounding nature of the Low Impact Industry, including office, retail and warehouse buildings,” per the planners, Tract

The facility will also bring together professionals in disability expertise, allied health specialities, Para Sports coaching, and a community of individuals who are passionate about Para Sports.



Published 10-May-2023

Sporting Wheelies Para Sports Clubhouse to Open in Milton

Great news for aspiring Brisbane Paralympians! Sporting Wheelies will soon open a new Para Sports Clubhouse and training facility in Milton.



The old Umart Online office and warehouse along Kilroe St will be refurbished into the future Paralympics training facility as Sporting Wheelies signed a seven-year lease of the 1700-square-meter site. It will proudly be an Australian-first initiative. 

“The Sporting Wheelies Para Sports Clubhouse will be an inclusive sports hub supporting para-athletes on the road to Brisbane 2032 and inspiring people with a disability to get active and participate in the community,” the organisation announced, adding that the initiative will be a game changer. 

“The Milton centre will combine industry-leading facilities with world-class rehabilitation and support services, bringing together disability experts, allied health specialists, Para Sports coaches, and the world’s best academics to improve the lives of people with a disability through co-design and innovation.”

For many years following his accident, Paralympian Luke Matthews has regarded Sporting Wheelies as a vital part of his life. Thus, having this clubhouse will be a big deal for his fellow Paralympians. Mr Matthews is currently training for a sporting event in Japan. 

Previously, the training facility was up and running in Bowen Hills and moved to Albion in 2020. However, the organisation began looking for a bigger site near the train stations at Milton and Auchenflower to be more convenient for its members. 

The Para Sports Clubhouse is earmarked for a February 2023 opening and includes a cafe managed by people with a disability.