Media Releases

$220,000 TO ADDRESS THE DRAINAGE ISSUES AT HUNTER BARNETT OVALS

April 28, 2025

A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will commit $220,000 to address longstanding drainage issues at Hunter Barnett ovals, making them safer and usable for more of the year.

Currently, even moderate rainfall often renders the grounds unplayable, severely impacting Windale Junior Rugby League Football Club’s ability to provide consistent training and competition opportunities for its growing membership.

Today’s election commitment builds on Federal Labor’s track record of delivering for local community sports clubs.

Federal Labor has already committed to upgrading facilities to support local sporting clubs across the region:

  • Charlestown Netball will benefit from $130,000 to permanently fix the steps on the front of courts 15 and 16;
  • John Balcomb Oval, home to the Dudley Magpies RLFC, will receive a $420,000 lighting upgrade;
  • Lisle Carr Oval, Whitebridge will receive a $275,000 investment to install flood-lighting;
  • Slade Park will be improved with $325,000 works to address longstanding flooding issues;
  • New fencing will be installed at Halekulani Oval, with a commitment of $35,000; and
  • Lighting will be upgraded at Cardiff Netball Courts and floodlighting installed at Jack Edwards Oval, Argenton.

Federal Labor has also committed $4.6 million to fund stage 2A of the upgrade of Belmont Sporting Complex, taking the venue one step closer to becoming Lake Macquarie’s premier venue for team sports.

Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.

Quotes attributable to Pat Conroy, Federal Member for Shortland:

“This is great news for the players, families, and the Windale community".

“I’m proud that Federal Labor is backing local community sport clubs by committing to improve infrastructure if re-elected.”

Quotes attributable to Evan Dewar, President, Windale Junior Rugby League Football Club:

“This is fantastic news for the community and our grassroots club".

“It’s all about getting kids on the field and involved in community sport.”

 

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