Lake Macquarie’s Belmont Sports Hub is making significant strides towards achieving regional sports excellence. The city council’s ambitious plan to transform Lake Macquarie into a premier sports destination has reached a pivotal stage, with Mayor Adam Shultz calling for increased support from state and federal authorities to propel the project to completion.
The first phase of the Belmont Sports Fields Masterplan, a $14 million initiative, has been successfully completed, marking a crucial milestone for local sports clubs. The council’s investment of $6.5 million, coupled with contributions of $1.4 million from the federal government and $6.2 million from the NSW government, has facilitated substantial upgrades to Barton Field No.2 and Lumsden Oval. These enhancements include the establishment of four rectangular fields, a baseball diamond, cricket facilities, irrigation systems, lighting, amenities buildings, and more, aimed at elevating the sporting experience for athletes and spectators alike.
While the initial phase has been accomplished, the forthcoming stages two and three necessitate additional funding of $25 million to materialize. Stage two is designed to enhance Barton Field No.1 by improving amenities, lighting, and constructing a new grandstand, while the final stage will focus on augmenting Les Miller Field with cricket nets, a baseball diamond, parking facilities, and lighting infrastructure.
Mayor Shultz, supported by federal Member for Shortland Pat Conroy and NSW Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley, envisions the Belmont Sports Hub as a pivotal regional sports facility capable of hosting state championships and drawing tourists to Lake Macquarie. Emphasizing the urgency of securing funding for the subsequent stages, Mayor Shultz underscores the importance of timely execution to build upon the current success.
The upgrade holds promise not only for existing sports clubs but also for aspiring athletes, with notable figures like rugby league legends Paul Harragon and Brett Kimmorley having emerged from the region. Organizations such as Belmont District Cricket Club, Belmont Baseball Club, Belmont Softball Club, Lakeside Netball Association, and Lakes United Rugby League stand to benefit significantly from the completed phase and eagerly anticipate the forthcoming enhancements.
Tony Delany, Lakes United’s junior president and senior vice president, highlights the positive impact of the new amenities, particularly for the club’s growing female contingent. The modernized facilities, catering to the evolving needs of female players, are expected to streamline operations, boost registrations, and enhance the overall sporting experience. Delany emphasizes that a well-equipped facility is instrumental in attracting and retaining players, thereby fostering the growth of sports within the community.
As Lake Macquarie’s Belmont Sports Hub continues to evolve, the call for continued support from governmental bodies resonates strongly, underscoring the significance of investment in sporting infrastructure to nurture talent, promote community engagement, and position the region as a hub for sporting excellence. The collaborative efforts of local authorities, sports clubs, and governing bodies are instrumental in realizing the grand vision of establishing Lake Macquarie as a premier destination for regional sports and recreation.
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