Wentworth Falls Football Club will be able to start building their new clubhouse within months after the last much needed grant of $175,000 was announced by Liberal Senator for Western Sydney Marise Payne on Friday.
Club president Bill Bouzianis said the community had been raising money for the project for two decades, trying to address a long standing, and well known need, within the Mountains sporting community.
The club has already received state and council funding and other funds.
“It will enable the club to provide members with a safe and welcoming facility with adequate storage, toilet and change facilities at the football fields … regardless of weather conditions,” Mr Bouzianis said.
“The club will become a place that can proudly attract community involvement, providing them with the opportunity to meet and work with other community groups in a safe and functional environment.”
The local sporting infrastructure grants were part of the second $30 million round of the federal government’s Community Sport Infrastructure Program.
Blue Mountains District Rugby Club at Lapstone will use their $45,900 grant for a new awning and scoreboard.
Club president George Ftynogiannis said the improved facilities will mean more community support and participation in all weather conditions.
“The federal government’s financial support in the achievement of both our awning and scoreboard will be a great benefit. Our members and community are very grateful,” Mr Ftynogiannis said.
Federal Sports Minister Bridget McKenzie said the federal government understood that success as a sporting nation began with grassroots sports.
“Grassroots sports help drive increased participation and promote social, health and community benefits of physical activity and sport – a key priority for our government,” she said.
Senator Payne said the benefits of the investment in the facilities will be felt right across the Blue Mountains community.
“Whether player, coach, volunteer or spectator, the upgrades today will enhance the experience of all users of these facilities.
“The National Sports Plan, Sport 2030, recognises sport plays a significant role in Australia, from our biggest cities, to regional communities like ours here in the Blue Mountains.”
Blue Mountains City Council is a proponent for the new facilities building at Pitt Park.
Deputy mayor and Ward 2 councillor Chris Van der Kley thanked the government for the building grant which will ensure full disabled access at the new Wentworth Falls clubhouse.
“It’s a great outcome.”