Mayor welcomes Bowral Blacks funding announcement
Wingecarribee Shire Mayor Councillor Ken Halstead has welcomed the news that the State Government will provide almost $1 million in funding for the redevelopment of the Bowral Blacks Club House.
The announcement was made late last week when Premier Gladys Berejiklian joined Wollondilly MP Jai Rowell on a tour of the Shire.
“Our Shire is known for its rich sporting history and this injection is sure to provide a springboard for generations of future athletes,” Mayor Halstead said.
Based at Eridge Park in Burradoo, the Council-owned public reserve is park is home to the Bowral Blacks Rugby Club, which has produced Regional, State and National rugby union representatives.
“While the facility is predominantly associated with rugby this funding promises to benefit a range of sports,” the Mayor said.
“Little athletics clubs, school sporting carnivals, touch football and netball teams are just some of the other regular users.”
A total of $991,330 will go towards extending the club house, providing function and conference facilities and improving accessibility.
The Mayor said the funding would enable the club to bid for larger sporting events including Super Rugby trial games and Shute Shield matches.
“This in turn will provide a flow on effect for the wider community,” he said. “Local business, tourism and accommodation operators will all benefit from this upgrade.”
On the same day the Premier announced an additional $235,000 would be made available to the Welby Garden Centre for the construction of an enclosed under-cover amenities area.
The centre is operated by Challenge Southern Highlands and provides vocational training and supported employment services to people with disabilities.
“These announcements are testimony of the State Government’s confidence in our Shire,” the Mayor added.
“The Member for Wollondilly continues to be a strong advocate for our region and we’re grateful for his continued support.”
Both grants were part of round two of the NSW State Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund. For further information regarding the fund visit www.nsw.gov.au/stronger-country-communities.