Conroy pledges to boost Budgewoi sporting clubs

A re-elected Albanese Labor Government will back Budgewoi sporting clubs with a $360,000 investment in local playing fields.

Labor Member for Shortland Pat Conroy has announced this election commitment would include $325,000 to improve irrigation and drainage at Slade Park and $35,000 to install new fencing at Halekulani Oval.

In recent years Slade Park has been plagued by flooding and drainage problems that have left the field damaged and meant that games have had to be cancelled.

Improving drainage and irrigation will make the field playable for more of the year and create a safer and more durable surface for games.

New fencing at Halekulani Oval will help prevent vandalism and antisocial behaviour on the oval and protect the turf from damage caused by bikes and vehicles.

Conroy said the investments were part of Labor’s commitment to supporting local sporting clubs and community facilities and promoting participation in grassroots sport.

“Community sport is important to families and people of all ages across the region,” he said.

“That’s why Labor is backing local clubs on the Central Coast by committing to improve infrastructure.

“This election commitment will not only help local clubs to thrive, it will improve and protect open spaces for the whole community.”

Daniel Wilson of Buff Point Bulldogs said the club had proudly called Halekulani Oval home since 1978 and it was a focal point for community sport in the area.

“We welcome this funding which will help to protect the oval from vandalism and also help to stop kids running on to the main roads nearby,” he said.

“Budgewoi junior and senior clubs want to thank Pat for this initiative which will help strengthen safety within community sport.”

North Lakes United Rugby Club raised the drainage issues at Slade Park and committee member Stacey Wilson said that fixing the longstanding issues was great news.

“We thank Pat for listening and backing our club by making a commitment to address the issues,” she said.

“Constant flooding meant that we were only able to have one home game last season.

“This had an impact on the club’s finances because we couldn’t open the canteen and was inconvenient for families.”

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