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What do cricket, swimming, and sausage sizzles have in common? In Bracken Ridge, they’re just part of everyday life for locals who love their suburb.

Bracken Ridge Locals Stay Connected Through Sport, Service and Swimming

Bracken Ridge residents are staying active, connected, and community-minded thanks to a range of local facilities and clubs that continue to bring people together in everyday ways.

Located about 18 kilometres north of Brisbane’s CBD, Bracken Ridge offers more than just family-friendly streets and scenic views — it’s home to a growing network of sports clubs, volunteer groups, and recreation centres that quietly support the suburb’s strong community vibe.

1. Bracken Ridge District Cricket Club

The Bracken Ridge District Cricket Club is a well-known name on the northside for lovers of the sport. With teams for both junior and senior players, the club promotes an inclusive and supportive environment for locals looking to get involved in cricket. It has become a popular place for families and individuals to connect, learn the game, and build lasting friendships.

The club is based at McPherson Park and participates in regular local competitions. Weekends often see the grounds buzzing with activity as players take to the pitch and families gather to cheer them on.

2. Bracken Ridge Central Lions Club

Serving the community since 1977, the Bracken Ridge Central Lions Club focuses on local support, charity efforts, and outreach projects that assist residents across the suburb. The group is part of Lions Clubs International and is run by volunteers who commit their time to helping others.

The club organises sausage sizzles, raises funds for health-related causes, supports local schools, and helps those in need during tough times. Members range from long-time residents to newer arrivals who are looking to make a difference in the area.

3. Bracken Ridge Indoor Sports Centre

For locals who enjoy indoor team sports, the Bracken Ridge Indoor Sports Centre provides a space for all ages to play competitively or just for fun. With courts for indoor cricket, netball, soccer and more, the facility operates throughout the week and attracts teams from nearby suburbs as well.

The centre supports both social and competitive games and encourages people of all skill levels to join in. It’s also used for school sports and events, offering a flexible and accessible venue for Bracken Ridge families.

4. Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre

Named after Olympic swimmer Emily Seebohm, this aquatic centre is a modern hub for swimmers of all levels. Located on Telegraph Road, the facility features a 25-metre heated indoor pool, a learn-to-swim program, and aqua aerobics classes. It’s a key site for school swimming carnivals and weekend family fun.

The centre is council-operated and caters to both casual swimmers and those training seriously. Staff are qualified and friendly, making it a safe and welcoming place for kids and adults alike.

Published 27-March-2025

Bracken Ridge Library is doing more than lending books—it’s becoming a vibrant space for locals to connect, learn, and take part in free events in Brisbane’s northside.

A Place to Learn, Connect and Create

Located on Bracken Street, the library runs free programs for all ages. These include First 5 Forever baby sessions to build early literacy, the Bracken Ridge Family History Group for those tracing their ancestry, and the Brisbane Fibre Crafters social group for knitting, crochet, and weaving.

These activities create opportunities for learning, creativity and community connection in a relaxed setting.

Facilities That Support the Community

Bracken Ridge Library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing and scanning, and a book return chute for after-hours use. It also has meeting rooms available for hire under Brisbane City Council’s three meeting room categories.

Category One rooms seat 10–50 people and are generally only accessible during library hours. They include basic tech like laptop connections and data projectors but may lack separate toilets or kitchenettes.

Category Two rooms, like those at Bracken Ridge, are larger (25–120 people), self-contained with kitchenettes and toilets, and usually available seven days a week (excluding public holidays).

Category Three is offered only at Brisbane Square Library and seats up to 120, with kitchenette access during library hours.

Booking and Hire Fees

Community groups can hire Category One and Two rooms for free if their events are non-commercial. If fees are charged or products sold, commercial community rates apply:

• Category One: from $15.60/hour
  
• Category Two: from $44.25/hour
  
• Category Three: from $181.45/hour
  

Business and government users pay higher fees. All charges include GST, with additional costs for security or extra cleaning where needed. Meeting rooms can be booked by contacting your local library, phoning Council, or using the National Relay Service at 133 677.

Open Hours and What’s Ahead

The library is open Tuesday to Saturday, with extended hours until 8pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. While closed Sundays and Mondays, it remains accessible through its return chute and event listings online.

As part of Brisbane City Council’s library network, Bracken Ridge Library continues to offer a wide range of free programs, services and community spaces—making it a valued part of everyday life for locals.

Published 27-March-2025