18 Jul 2008

In NSW, a $500,000 funding boost has been awarded by the federal government to upgrade local sporting and recreational facilities in the Blue Mountains and Central West region.

Funding to improve Blue Mountains region sports facilities

The Rudd Government today confirmed a $500,000 funding boost to upgrade local sporting and recreational facilities in the Blue Mountains and Central West region.

The Minister for Sport, Kate Ellis, and the Federal Member for Macquarie, Bob Debus, said the funding delivered on important election commitments to encourage greater participation in sports and recreation activities.

“Participating in sports contributes to the good health and wellbeing of Australians of all ages,” Ms Ellis said.

“These grants will help improve local facilities, making it easier for local residents throughout the region to engage in various sports and other physical activities.”

The grants include:

• • $170,000 to upgrade lighting and irrigation at the Bathurst soccer fields;
  • $100,000 to upgrade recreation facilities in Oberon;
  • $100,000 to upgrade the playing field at the Lithgow hockey fields to artificial turf;
  • $100,000 to improve spectator seating at the Lapstone netball complex;
  • $15,000 to purchase ground-keeping equipment for the Bathurst Rugby Union Cricket Club; and
  • $15,000 to upgrade rugby facilities at Brooke Moore Oval in Bathurst.

Mr Debus welcomed the funding commitment, saying the grants would help local sports players, spectators and families alike.

“Sports of all codes play an important role in the social and cultural life of communities throughout the Blue Mountains and Central West,” Mr Debus said.

“Encouraging greater physical activity through sports and recreation is also an important part of helping people to get fit and stay healthy.

“The Lapstone Netball Complex is currently working towards a major upgrade to its facilities, including resurfacing of courts, upgrading amenities and car parking.

“The commitment of $100,000 for upgrades to grandstand seating will complement the other redevelopment work being undertaken.

“Upgrades to the local cricket, rugby and soccer grounds will enhance Bathurst’s reputation as a premier regional centre for sports and sporting development.

“Artificial turf for the Lithgow hockey fields assists the development of the complex to meet the highest playing standards.

“The Government’s commitment of $100,000 to upgrade facilities in the Oberon Recreation Reserve will be a boon to local residents and tourists. The reserve already includes tennis courts, playing fields and a heated swimming pool.”

Media contact: Greg Doolan (Kate Ellis) – 0433 345 323 Mark Andrews (Bob Debus) – 0417 024 890