Mitchell Shire Council has welcomed a $500,000 election commitment from the Coalition and Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell to upgrade the second oval of Seymour's Kings Park.
A significant and much-loved community hub, Kings Park is a vital part of the sporting, events and cultural landscape in the north of the Shire.
The project, which will also receive $150,000 from Council, will see AFL standard lighting installed on the second oval, which will enhance the park's functionality and usability for the thousands of community members and visitors it supports each year.
Kings Park is home to a wide range of local sporting clubs and community groups, including the Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Society, Seymour Football Netball Club, Seymour Junior Football Netball Club, Eastern Hill Cricket Club, Seymour Little Athletics Club and many more.
The park also plays host to major annual events such as the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo, the Seymour Agricultural and Pastoral Show and the Seymour Gift. These events bring important tourism and economic benefits to Seymour and the broader Mitchell Shire.
In addition to two sports ovals, Kings Park features netball courts, equestrian facilities, pavilions, walking paths, a play space, picnic areas and public amenities - making it not only a sporting venue but a valued space for family recreation and social connection.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Councillor John Dougall said the funding would help future-proof one of the region's most important community assets.
"Kings Park is more than just a sporting ground - it's a gathering place, a tourist destination, and a piece of Seymour's identity," he said.
"We're incredibly grateful to Sam Birrell and The Coalition for this important commitment to Kings Park. It is a fantastic step towards improving participation opportunities for juniors, who utilise the back oval.
"This commitment reflects the importance of investing in regional communities and supporting the groups who bring spaces like this to life.
"I also want to sincerely thank the Kings Park Committee of Management, who do an outstanding job caring for and advocating for this space.
"Their dedication makes a real difference, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with them."
