Wellington's Kennard Park will have a new look when the football season kicks off next year. The most recent Kennard Park renewal project will further support Dubbo Regional Council's (DRC) commitment to improving sporting infrastructure in the Dubbo region.
Dubbo Region Mayor, Councillor Stephen Lawrence said the extensive list of improvements at Kennard Park in Wellington is another a great example of the Australian and NSW Government working together to deliver great results for the community. "We have previously seen some wonderful additions to Kennard Park with help from federal member Andrew Gee MP and now the NSW Government's stepped in, through the Stronger Country Communities Fund and enabled significant improvements to the beloved home-ground of the Wellington Cowboys," said Councillor Lawrence.
The latest upgrades to Kennard Park in Wellington will provide new and improved facilities for the players and supporters. The project includes the purchase and installation of two new fully accessible modular amenities units. DRC staff have worked closely with stakeholders to strategically locate the units, installing one on the eastern side of the park to replace the old condemned amenities and the other unit has been installed on the south western side near the canteen. The planning and consideration will create accessible links between the grandstand, canteen, amenities and playing field.
As part of the upgrades, construction of new adjoining disability car parking for each amenity block is underway.
The renewal project will also involve the refurbishment of the existing change rooms including a new false ceiling, removal of the ventilation brick and steel bars and rendering of the internal walls, whirly birds in the roof, marine carpet on the floor and new shower hardware and partitions.
The lollies and steak sandwiches have not been forgotten, the canteen will also receive a much needed renewal, including new benches, new serving doors and a new shelter over the BBQ area behind the canteen.
State member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders said this project is a big win for Wellington.
"The Cowboys have a very proud history, with NRL stars like Blake Ferguson, Tyrone Peachey, Brent Naden and Kotoni Staggs starting their careers at Wellington, along with local heroes like Justin Toomey-White and Mason Williams," Mr Saunders said.
"These improvements will enhance the experience for players and spectators alike, ensuring Kennard Park remains the home of this beloved team for generations to come."
The project is being delivered by a number of local businesses including Jared Wykes Electrical, Matt Redfern Constructions, Boland Contracting, Glenn Healey Constructions, and Andy Burns Plumbing and Heating.
This latest round of improvements complements other work that has been delivered since the amalgamation of Wellington and Dubbo Councils. This includes the purchase and installation of the new perimeter fence and the installation of new seating in the grandstand area thanks to the Australian Government and Andrew Gee MP in 2019, and the redevelopment of the playing surface, including new irrigation and turf thanks to Dubbo Regional Council and Hogs 4 Homeless campaign in 2018.
