Media Releases

10 Jul 2008 - Funding to upgrade local sports facilities in Eden-Monaro

The Member for Eden-Monaro Mike Kelly and the Minister for Sport, Kate Ellis, today confirmed the Rudd Government's commitment of $1.77 million to upgrade local sports facilities.

Ms Ellis said she had written to the Queanbeyan, Palerang and Snowy River councils to confirm the funding commitments.

"Investing in community sport and recreation is an important priority for the Government," Ms Ellis said.

"It is more than just about putting money into grandstands, playing fields and footballs. It is an investment in the health and wellbeing of Australians of all ages."

The grants include:

• $1,000,000 to upgrade Campese Oval and Taylor Park in Queanbeyan;
• $650,000 for upgrades to the Jindabyne sports field; and
• $120,000 for the refurbishment of change rooms at Bungendore swimming pool.

Dr Kelly said the funding commitment was welcome and would allow the councils to progress with their plans.

"Sports of all codes play an important role in the social and cultural life of communities throughout the diverse electorate of Eden-Monaro," Dr Kelly said.

"The Government's commitment of $1 million will help the Queanbeyan City Council upgrade Campese Oval and Taylor Park, including improving the playing surface and the construction of amenities, including a change room for referees.

"The upgrades to Bungendore swimming pool include renovating the dual-use change rooms located in Bungendore Park, which are utilised by local swimmers and other clubs who use the nearby Mick Sherd Oval for sports such as football.

"While everyone thinks of skiing and Jindabyne in winter, the local sports field is also an important part of the local alpine community. I have had the pleasure of playing touch football on the ground and was struck by the broad community participation in this activity in Summer. The Government's investment of $650,000 will help the Snowy River Shire Council upgrade facilities at the field."