LEGENDARY rugby league footballer Shane Webcke will assist in the preparation of an action plan for sport and recreation on the Southern Downs.

Webcke is originally from Leyburn and played all his early footy for Wattles in the Allora and Clifton areas before heading to Brisbane club league and then the Brisbane Broncos. He went on to play for Queensland and Australia and is regarded as one of the best props to play the game.

Members of sport and recreation groups across the region are invited to Southern Downs Regional Council's Inaugural Sport and Recreation Forum on May 18 at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre.

The forum will focus on 'Building a Successful Sport and Recreation Culture within the Southern Downs and aims to encourage sport and recreation groups to work together and collaboratively with the SDRC to achieve a shared vision of Sport and Rec on the Southern Downs.

Southern Downs Portfolio Councillor for Events, Sport and Recreation, Yve Stocks said SDRC was excited to have Shane Webcke on board as keynote speaker at the forum.

"Shane Webcke is well known both on and off the footy field and is a local ambassador for the Southern Downs, hailing from Leyburn. So it's fantastic that Shane will share his extensive knowledge, expertise and success in the sporting and business arena at the forum.

"Shane will work with community groups on an Action Plan to set some long term goals and a shared vision for sport and recreation on the Southern Downs," she said.

Cr Stocks highlighted that community consultation on Council's draft Sport and Recreation Strategy will also be an important segment of the forum.

"Sport and recreation organisations and spaces play a major role in building, supporting and sustaining vibrant and healthy communities in our region.

"The Sport and Recreation Strategy will ensure this work is maintained and delivered to meet the needs of the communities in the Southern Downs now and in the future.

"Consequently, Council is encouraging all event, sport and recreation groups to come along and play an active part in this forum and in providing feedback on the strategy," she said.

The forum on May 18 is at 11am-2pm at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre and will be facilitated by Mayor Tracy Dobie. Lunch is being provided.

RSVP by May 11 to SDRC Sport and Recreation Officer Sue Organ, on 1300 MY SDRC (1300 697 372) or email sue.organ@sdrc.qld.gov.au.