The old, cramped clubhouse at Lionel Morten Oval in Karuah has now been demolished and work is underway to construct a $1.2 million sports facility in its place.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The new, modern clubhouse now being built at the Mustons Road sport complex, home to the Karuah and Tea Gardens District Cricket Club and Karuah Roos Rugby League Club, is expected to be finished in time for the 2020 winter sport season.
"Local players of both sports have talked to me about the need for upgraded facilities at the oval and I'm delighted we have been able to secure federal funding to help get this project over the line," Dr David Gillespie, the federal member for Lyne, said.
The project, announced in May 2019, is being funded by Port Stephens Council ($653,786), the Australian Government's Community Sport Infrastructure Program ($496,214) and the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund ($50,000).
The new, purpose-built clubhouse 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 in consultation with the rugby league and cricket clubs, also incorporates an extended awning which will provide shelter to spectators from sun and rain.
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer said Lionel Morten Oval is an important community asset.
"This isn't just for the rugby league and cricket clubs - it's an important facility for the entire community of Karuah," he said.
"It's fantastic that everyone has worked together - two levels of government, Cricket NSW and the community - to make this project possible and I can't wait to see the end result."
