Women and girls across the Upper Hunter electorate will have access to more inclusive sporting facilities, thanks to the NSW Government’s $25 million Female Friendly Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrades Program.
Member for Upper Hunter Dave Layzell said five sporting facilities are set to be transformed, with $1.56 million in grants to deliver lighting upgrades and female-friendly amenities for local sports clubs in Muswellbrook, Singleton, Scone and Gloucester.
“Community sport is a vital part of our social fabric and some of the biggest barriers faced by women and girls are the lack of female change rooms and amenities, as well as adequate lighting,” Mr Layzell said.
“The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government recognises the critical role local sport infrastructure plays in keeping our communities healthy and active, and by helping boost female participation, we will ensure any young girl or woman who wants to shoot a hoop, score a try or kick a goal, can do so in a supportive and safe environment.”
“This groundbreaking program will level the playing field by improving facilities that for decades have been predominately used by men, but now cater for the growing number of our local women’s and girls’ sporting teams.”
Projects funded by the Female Friendly Sport Facilities and Lighting Upgrades Program include;
· Lighting upgrades for Weeraman Field and Highbrook Park, Muswellbrook;
· New LED sports lighting for the athletics facility located in Singleton’s Rose Point Park sport and recreation precinct;
· Lighting upgrade with a dimming option for Scone Rugby Union Club Ground; and,
· Gloucester Netball amenities and lights upgrade with existing lighting upgraded to LED and amenities improvements to include new lights, replacement of toilet suites, hand basins and taps, and renewal of water and waste pipes where necessary.
Since 2017 the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government has committed more than $1 billion to deliver new and upgraded community sport facilities.
Minister for Sport Alister Henskens said major events including the recent FIBA Women’s World Cup and upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup are creating enormous excitement and inspiring the next generation of female sporting stars.
“Whether it’s on the court, field or track, we continue to be inspired by our homegrown talent like Ellyse Perry, Lauren Jackson and Madison de Rozario, who are captivating the nation with their extraordinary athleticism and passion,” Mr Henskens said.
“The Liberal and Nationals Government’s investment in community sport infrastructure is improving facilities for women and girls, and boosting female participation in sport, in line with our Her Sport Her Way strategy.”
More information about the program and the list of successful recipients is available online at the Office of Sport website; www.sport.nsw.gov.au.
