Funding to the tune of $1.2 million has been locked in to replace the clubhouse at Karuah's Lionel Morten Oval to bring it in line with what is expected from a modern sports facility.
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Lyne MP Dr David Gillespie announced a $496,214 contribution from the federal government on Friday, May 3, rounding out funding commitments from Port Stephens Council and Cricket NSW to complete the project.
"I have enjoyed watching a number of Roos games here in the past and I know the club and the players will most certainly welcome this major upgrade," Dr Gillespie said.
The funding comes from the Federal Government's $30-million Community Sport Infrastructure Program. Port Stephens Council has contributed $653,786 and Cricket NSW $50,000 through the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund.
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer said it was "fantastic" to see the two levels of government, Cricket NSW and the community work together to "fund a deeply needed facility here in Karuah".
"Sporting facilities like this are more than just for the clubs that use it," he said. "This facility is an integral part of the community."
Lionel Morten Oval is home to Karuah and Tea Gardens District Cricket Club and Karuah Roos Rugby League Club.
The oval's cramped clubhouse is expected to be knocked down at the end of 2019, following the end to the league season, and replaced with all new one that was designed in consultation with the two clubs.
The new building will include a food and drink kiosk, referees room, first aid room, home and away unisex change rooms, storage areas, formalisation of accessible parking and public amenities.
The building design also incorporates an extended awning which will provide shelter to spectators from sun and rain.
Karuah Roos president Rob Gallagher said the announcement was "magnificent".
"It's great for the future of the town and the community that gets use out of it," he said. "This will make it a lot more user-friendly for the volunteers of both codes who use it, the players and the community."
Representatives from Karuah Roos, Karuah RSL Club and Port Stephens Council including Mayor Palmer and West Ward councillor Paul Le Mottee attended Friday's funding announcement at the oval.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
