The Shoalhaven has a new state of the art sporting facility worthy of showcasing local talents, with upgrades to Artie Smith Oval in Bomaderry officially opened today by Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips MP.
Mrs Phillips said the significant investment at the oval, co-funded by the Australian and NSW Governments along with contributions from Shoalhaven City Council, would make Bomaderry the premium destination for regional sporting events.
“I am absolutely thrilled to officially open the revitalised sporting complex at Artie Smith Oval today – and what a transformation!” Fiona Phillips said.
In the wake of years of natural disasters, COVID-19 and challenging economic circumstances, Fiona Phillips said we need to ensure that the Shoalhaven has the facilities local people deserve – while also being able to draw attention from regional and national bodies looking to host events outside of major cities.
“I’ve long been a champion of the Shoalhaven Community and Recreation Precinct because I can see the benefit state of the art facilities like this can bring to our broader region, supporting local jobs, boosting tourism and showcasing our region to a national audience,” Fiona said.
“We’ve got Cricket NSW Foundation’s youth cricket program, and two Big Bash League T20 exhibition matches today demonstrating the difference these new and improved facilities can make – drawing teams down from Sydney to play right here in Bomaderry. How great is that?”
“Helping our community get back on its feet after our toughest period yet has been one of my top priorities, and I’m thrilled to be delivering that crucial support right across the South Coast through fantastic Australian Government-funded grants like this one,” she added.
The Shoalhaven Southern Community and Recreational Precinct Artie Smith Oval received $8 million under the Australian and NSW Government’s Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund. Upgrades include a new AFL and Cricket oval, clubhouse, amenities, cricket pitches, croquet courts and clubhouse, and parking.
The upgrade was officially opened on Friday, 2 February 2024, by Fiona Phillips MP, Member for South Coast Liza Butler MP and Shoalhaven City Council.
