Member for Riverina Michael McCormack says a Federal Coalition Government will work with Coolamon Shire Council to deliver modern facilities at Jim Thompson Sporting Fields, including new toilets, showers and female changerooms.
Mr McCormack said an elected Coalition Government would deliver $400,000 for the project.
“People of all ages use Jim Thompson Sporting Fields for a variety of sports, including touch football and junior rugby league; it is a very popular venue,” Mr McCormack said.
“However, the amenities are in need of an upgrade to keep up with the demand and what people expect when it comes to toilets and changerooms.
“At present, people have to use facilities at the Coolamon Sport and Recreation Club, which does present challenges, especially for young people.”
Mr McCormack said Coolamon was a great sporting town and users of Jim Thompson Sporting Fields deserved amenities equal to those enjoyed in larger population centres.
Coolamon Shire Mayor, Councillor David McCann OAM, said Council was very keen to see this project through to completion.
“The facility is in need of urgent upgrades to bring it up to standard and provide for the increased participation in women’s sport,” Councillor McCann said.
“We’re seeing a significant increase in usage of the facilities at the Jim Thompson Sporting Fields, particularly by our touch and junior rugby league, and we need to provide adequate changerooms facilities.
“This grant would allow us to fund that project, which is essential for the community.
“All of our schools use the grounds also for their off-school sporting events so I imagine there would be a significant increase in participation.”
Cr McCann thanked Mr McCormack for fighting for improvements to the Jim Thompson Sporting Fields.
“Michael has been there, he has seen what is needed and he has fought hard to get a funding commitment for this project,” Cr McCann said.
Mr McCormack said the investment was part of The Nationals’ continuing commitment to delivering better facilities for rural and regional Australians.