The grand opening of the transformed Artie Smith Oval in Bomaderry prepares to unveil its new and improved facilities on Friday, 2 February.
This landmark event will showcase an enhanced recreational experience for the community, marking a significant milestone in Shoalhaven's sporting landscape.
The Shoalhaven Community and Recreation Precinct Artie Smith Oval – Southern project is a remarkable collaboration, generously co-funded by the Council, the Australian Government, and the NSW Government's Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund.
"Council is thrilled to present an upgraded regional sporting facility for the Shoalhaven. This redevelopment caters not only to the high-quality training and sporting needs of our local clubs and players but also solidifies the Shoalhaven as a premier host for major sporting events," said Mayor Amanda Findley.
"The transformed Artie Smith Oval is a testament to the power of collaborative efforts and the commitment to community development. This facility will undoubtedly become a key player in the Shoalhaven's recreational scene," Cr Findley said.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said upgrades to Artie Smith Oval are an example of the NSW Government's commitment to building stronger more resilient regional economies.
"This project shows how the NSW Government is supporting the long-term development of regional communities, ensuring they have the infrastructure and services needed to grow and thrive," Ms Moriarty said.
"The NSW Government is backing community projects in Bomaderry that will boost preparedness for future disasters, encourage economic recovery, aid tourism and bring people together."
The new Artie Smith Oval facilities boast a myriad of exciting features, including:
- AFL/Cricket field and pavilion clubhouse with modern amenities
- Cricket practice facilities designed to foster skill development
- Four meticulously designed croquet courts, complemented by a clubhouse and amenities
- Open space embellishments, featuring play and exercise equipment, landscaping, pathways, and stylish seating furniture
- Onsite car parking for the utmost convenience of visitors
- Perimeter security fencing ensuring safe pedestrian access
The festivities kick off at 9.30am with a Welcome to Country, followed by a Cricket NSW Foundation Indigenous youth cricket program that aims to make the sport accessible to First Nations youths. This initiative combines cricket experiences with a connection to country and community.
Later in the day, enjoy two Big Bash (BBL) League T20 exhibition matches featuring the Sydney Thunder and Sydney Sixers Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men's and women's teams. Since 2015, the Sixers and Thunder Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander T20 Teams have been competing, not only against each other but also against various BBL franchises.
This initiative serves as a pathway for Indigenous cricketers. Those selected in these teams aspire to join the NSW Indigenous Teams, which annually compete in the National Indigenous Cricket Championships held in Alice Springs.
