$34K Knockout Funding Boost For Hinchinbrook Youth Boxing Gym

Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym is set for a major upgrade, with new funding to deliver safer equipment and expand opportunities for young people across the Hinchinbrook Shire. Photo source: Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym

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Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre’s Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym will soon welcome a major upgrade, following a significant funding boost through the Queensland Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

Approximately $34,800 has been awarded to the youth-focused facilities as part of the latest funding round, joining nearly 800 community organisations statewide to share in a $19.5 million investment aimed at strengthening grassroots initiatives and supporting local communities.

Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym exists as far more than just a sporting facility and provides a pathway for young people to build resilience, develop life skills and create brighter futures. Over the years, participants have progressed to state and national titles, professional careers and meaningful employment, highlighting the lasting impact of the program within the community.

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Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym will use the funding to upgrade essential equipment and resources, including safer, more modern training gear to support growing participation and ensure a high standard of safety and engagement for young people.

Dean Poppi, Boxing Traner at Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym said the funding could not have come at a better time, with the upgraded equipment set to strengthen the facility’s mission of supporting young people across the Hinchinbrook Shire in a safe, inclusive and engaging environment.

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“Our community’s facing increasing challenges around youth activity, disengagement, and disadvantage,” said Mr Poppi.

“The funding will make a significant difference as improved equipment will enhance training quality, boost confidence, and increase participation.”

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In terms of broader community impact, Mr Poppi said the investment would help drive stronger youth engagement and promote healthier, more active lifestyles. It would also strengthen community connection by creating a positive, supportive space where young people can develop a genuine sense of belonging and purpose.

Like many regional organisations, Mr Poppi said Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym has been navigating growing demand with limited resources, pointing to rising costs, financial pressures across the Hinchinbrook Shire and ageing equipment as key challenges impacting its ability to sustain and expand services.

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“Funding like this is incredibly important for regional groups and it’ll allows Kingdom Boxing to continue to maintain safe facilities and respond to the real and growing needs of our community,” he said.

“Without this support, many young people would lose access to vital programs that provide both physical and social benefits.”

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Behind the scenes, support from the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre has played a key role in securing funding opportunities for local organisations, and through a dedicated Grants Officer, funded by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, community groups like Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym are able to access funding that may otherwise be out of reach.

“Receiving this funding is incredibly meaningful. It’s a recognition of the work being done in the community and the positive impact we’re having on young people’s lives,” added Mr Poppi.

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“Personally, it’s rewarding to know that the effort put into supporting youth is being acknowledged and backed.  It also brings a sense of reassurance that we can continue to provide opportunities, guidance, and a safe space for young people to grow and succeed.”

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