A new irrigation system at Leeton High School’s oval will ensure the fields are able to be used for sports matches through the year thanks to a $118,000 NSW Government grant.
Member for Murray Austin Evans said the new irrigation system was particularly important during the summer months.
“A variety of community groups use the ovals at the high school, particularly in hosting regional sporting events, which bring players and spectators to town,” Mr Evans said.
Austin pictured with Leeton High School Principal Megan Crelley and Leeton District Cricket Association Sponsorship and Grants Coordinator Brian Rotherham.
“The system will feature automated control so oval watering can take place at night, use water more efficiently and reduce water loss due to evaporation.
“This will ensure the playing surface will be maintained with a level of grass that can be enjoyed by all users across a range of sports and competition levels.”
Sponsorship and Grants Coordinator Brian Rotherham said the association was thrilled with the funding, which comes on top of the T20 Tournament funding they received last week.
Mr Rotherham said an irrigation system for the sports oval will make an enormous difference to the quality of the playing surface.
“It will not only benefit the school, but also the many different sporting clubs that use the oval.
“It will also benefit local businesses as all funds received will be spent among local business houses”.
Minister for Racing Paul Toole said the project was funded through the Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grants program.
“More than $50 million in funding is being provided during this current term of government for projects across sport and recreation, emergency preparedness, and arts and culture,” Mr Toole said.
“These grants are funded by a contribution from the state’s registered clubs to reinvest profits from gaming machines back into community projects.”
The program was improved in 2017 to give community organisations more chances to apply for a wider range of projects.
New funding ranges have encouraged more diverse projects, with a streamlined application process that cuts red tape and allows for faster assessment.