Funding secured for amenity,

irrigation and drainage works

Following consistent advocacy from Yasmin Catley, Member for Swansea, to both local and state governments, a total of $3.02 million from the Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 5 has been allocated for irrigation and drainage works and upgrades to the amenities at Buff Point Oval, as well as to renew the amenities block at Halekulani Oval.

24 February 2023

$520,000 of the funding received will be put towards drainage and irrigation installation to the Buff Point sports ground.

$1.2 million will be used to replace the Buff Point amenities building, and $1.3 million will be put towards upgrading the amenities at Halekulani Oval.

These ovals are much-loved community assets. They are home to the Budgewoi Bulldogs Rugby League Club, and are also utilised by local netball and cricket clubs,

schools and the wider community.

Despite frequent use of the facilities by the local community, the ovals have received minimal upgrades over the past few decades that have led to the amenities blocks not being big enough to host teams, with female players required to get changed at home.

Furthermore, Buff Point Oval’s drainage has not been working for three years, which has prevented teams from training.

Yasmin Catley said “I was thrilled to hear that $3.02 million from the Stronger Country Communities Fund had been allocated towards irrigation and drainage works and amenities upgrades at Buff Point Oval, as well as rejuvenating the amenities at Halekulani Oval.

“These ovals have been home to the Budgewoi Bulldogs since the 1980s, however, little works have been conducted at the ovals over the years, which has led to issues with the grounds and amenities blocks.

“It is truly a great outcome for the local community that these works will take place, as it will provide a boost to the local sporting scene.”