Olds Park in Penshurst will undergo a $4.9 million sporting and community space upgrade after the NSW Government announced it was one of 39 round two recipients of its Multi-Sport Community Facility Fund.
Minister for Sport, Alister Henskens, made the funding announcement at the regional sporting precinct with the support of Georges River Council Mayor, Nick Katris and Member for Oatley, Mark Coure.
Funding of $100 million was available in round one and two of the grant, to local government and sporting organisations.
Georges River Council was successful in receiving $4.9 million following a competitive, merit-based assessment with applicants required to make a minimum 50% financial co-contribution to the cost of the project.
With the combined funds from NSW Government, Council and AFL NSW, an innovative and inclusive premium sporting facility at the regionally significant Olds Park will be built for use by all community members.
It will include four, universally accessible changerooms, and upgraded club and spectator facilities to revitalise the existing degraded facility and support a dual oval facility. Construction is estimated to be completed by December 2025.
“This important announcement was chosen to be held at Olds Park in Penshurst as it is such a significant park,” said Mayor Katris.
“It hosts junior and senior AFL, cricket and athletics structured sports for local clubs but also hosts teams across greater Sydney. This is a significant AFL hub, especially as we are seeing a major growth of women in AFL.
“This facility will be open to all the community whether they are participating in organised sports or residents using the facilities for everyday physical activity and leisure.
“This is a key investment to the overall plan to improve the facilities at Olds Park in Penshurst for the benefit of the community.”