Kiama Sport Complex has received almost $1 million funding to upgrade lighting at the sports fields. Photo: Region Illawarra.
Kiama Sports Complex has received the first injection of funds towards a major overhaul of the ageing facility.
The NSW Government has announced funding of $926,316 towards upgrading LED lighting for sports fields.
Earlier this year, Kiama Council adopted a masterplan to upgrade the complex and Kiama Leisure Centre, but warned residents that it would require funding “far beyond” what council could provide.
Insufficient lighting was identified as one of the many issues at the precinct.
Mayor Cameron McDonald welcomed the funding and said lighting at the sports complex was crucial now more than ever for sporting teams to stage training and matches, particularly with the rise in female participation.
“Anyone who has ever been here on a Saturday morning where there are kids and parents all over the precinct will know that this is a very important part of our local government area,” he said.
“We love sport in Kiama and this complex is home to several sports clubs – cricketers, soccer players, netballers, athletics, skateboarders as well as all the swimmers, basketballers and fitness enthusiasts who use our leisure centre.
“The complex is also home for school sporting carnivals where our champions of tomorrow learn the tricks of their sporting trade.”
An artist’s impression of an upgraded Kiama Sports Complex with new grandstand, amenities and clubhouse. Photo: Kiama Municipal Council.
Council’s masterplan for the sporting precinct will require significant funding from state and federal governments.
“We have been quite vocal at council about our desire to see this essential part of our community get some much-needed TLC so we can make it a modern facility for the people of Kiama,” Cr McDonald said.
“Thanks to the State Government for the investment in the lighting upgrade and we hope it’s the first step in a major overhaul of our sporting infrastructure.
“We have a grand vision for these facilities that we’d love to complete in the coming years so we will keep working with the state and federal governments to make that a reality.”
Also receiving funding under the Active Regional Communities Package was Kiama Surf Life Saving Club ($100,760 for rescue equipment and hospitality training) and Kiama Rugby Club which will receive $30,705 for clubhouse upgrades.
