No. 62

A WIN-WIN FOR SPORTS

The Stanhope Government will provide budget funding of $3.6 million for improvements and maintenance of Canberra’s sports grounds, facilities and urban open space.  

“As part of this funding, I am pleased to announce the allocation of $500,000 in 2006-07, for the repair and restoration of over 40 hectares of sportsgrounds across Canberra to a fully operational condition,” said Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, John Hargreaves.

“The Government is acutely aware of the effect that the drought, and the necessary water restrictions on these ovals, has had on community sporting programs and activities.

“This positive restoration work will help to bring back into operation many sportsgrounds that have degraded due to the drought.  

“As many of these grounds are adjacent to primary schools, it will also enhance the students’ physical education activities.  The sportsgrounds to be restored are spread across Canberra and include Ngunnawal, Bonython, Chisholm and Torrens.  Parts of Kippax and Melba district playing fields will also be repaired. 

“This initiative will ensure the appropriate restoration work is carried out, including aerating, weed control, fertilising, seeding and topdressing, to return the grounds to our children and the ACT sporting community.  In some cases, new water conservation methods, like absorbent gels, will be added to the topsoil to allow more efficient water use in the future. 

Mr Hargreaves said that in addition to this drought rehabilitation work, the Government will spend $1.1 million on improvements to sports facilities across Canberra.  Improvements conducted in this program will include the installation of lighting at Jerrabomberra oval in Narrabundah and Garran oval, construction of change rooms at O’Connor enclosed oval, construction of a canteen at Latham playing fields and the refurbishment of pavilions at a number of sportsgrounds across Canberra.

“In keeping with the Government’s desire to help the community get out there and enjoy the beautiful environment, amenities and activities that Canberra has to offer, this budget also includes $2 million to improve and maintain things such as pedestrian facilities, playgrounds, drought affected landscapes, cycle facilities and public toilets.

“These commitments are about making sure we have a Canberra which we want to experience every day,” said Mr Hargreaves.