Revamp for school sport space

Ettalong Public School’s mixed sport space will soon be a cool spot to gather following the latest round of NSW Government grants.

Ettalong’s Parents & Citizens’ Association was granted $30,000 through the Community Building Partnership (CBP) program for the refurbishment of the school’s mixed sport court, which will reactivate the facility, while enhancing physical education, sports participation and academic success.

Refurbishing the deteriorating court, with its basketball/netball court, six-lane running track and handball courts, will benefit more than 500 students and local community groups.

Updated surface coatings will reduce surface temperatures by 25%, allowing for a safer playing environment.

“We are incredibly grateful,” School Principal Jodie Campbell said.

“The opportunity will be tremendous for our kids and our community.

“We use this space not just for our children but also for community groups that utilise our playground.

“Reducing the temperature is phenomenal because in Summer it’s been a tricky space for them to be able to play.”

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said it was vital to promote sport participation, which had been shown to reduce stress and foster inclusivity, increased self-esteem, confidence and academic success in students.

“This grant will deliver a much-needed improvement to a local asset and it’s great to see this grassroots funding supporting local projects that make a real difference on the Central Coast,” she said.

The Gosford electorate has been granted $450,000 in funding for a total of 20 infrastructure projects through the $41M CBP program.