Rugby union and touch football clubs in Medowie are better equipped with a new amenities building catering to their needs, with construction now complete on the $1.4 million facility at Boyd Oval.
The new, modern building includes change rooms, referees rooms, a canteen, unisex bathrooms and accessible amenities.
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer and Central Ward Councillor Chris Doohan inspected the facility this morning, alongside Paterson MP Meryl Swanson and representatives from Medowie Rugby Union Club.
The project was jointly funded by the Australian Government and Port Stephens Council.
Australian Government funding of $120,000 was provided through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
This program supports local councils to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects across Australia, supporting jobs and the resilience of local economies to help communities bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This is a huge win for the people of Medowie and the local rugby and touch football clubs who call Boyd Oval home," Mayor Palmer said.
"As well as providing top-notch facilities, the building's centralised location is better connected to the playing fields and has a wider viewing corridor, making for an enhanced player and spectator experience.
"It's been exciting to see the old clubhouse come down and the finishing touches being added to the grounds over the past few weeks, marking the project's completion in time for the 2022 rugby season."
Cr Doohan thanked local sporting clubs and the community for their patience.
"They say great things come to those who wait and this is definitely the case with Boyd Oval," he said.
"It's taken longer than we would have liked to secure external funding for this project, but it's great to see it completed and ready to be enjoyed by players, officials and spectators."
Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson said she was pleased federal funding was able to support the project, which was a great asset for Medowie.
"I know these new amenities will be greatly appreciated by rugby union and touch football players and their supporters," Ms Swanson said.
