$5 million will be invested into the Tomaree Sports Complex to expand the Don Waring Oval into a multi-code playing surface equipped with floodlights and create a safe and accessible ‘sports walk’ pathway.
Tomaree Sports Council President, Bruce Scott welcomed the investment and highlighted that sport should be inclusive for people of all ages, genders and abilities.
“More than 3,000 registered players use the Tomaree Sports Complex for cricket, touch football, soccer, baseball and AFL – it’s a vital hub for our sporting community,” Mr Scott said.
“This expansion will directly address the current capacity issues, ensuring clubs aren’t forced to turn away potential members, particularly women,” he added.
Mayor Ryan Palmer said that the new upgrade is part of the Tomaree Sports Complex Masterplan and will complement the Bruce Scott Pavilion, the revitalised Elizabeth Waring building, the new playground under construction, and ongoing drainage improvements.
“This project will be jointly funded through the NSW State Government and Port Stephens Council,” Mayor Palmer said.
“We want to transform the Tomaree Sports Complex to benefit the local community but also attract more events and visitors, boosting the regional economy.
“Thousands of people attend events at the complex every year and we anticipate that number will grow with better facilities.
“By offering more playing fields, floodlights, and flexible scheduling, we’re making the complex more attractive and accessible for everyone to enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity,” he added.
Stay up to date on all projects and works at portstephens.nsw.gov.au/projects
