Cricketers young and old throughout the Cessnock LGA have been bowled over by a massive $648,640 windfall.

Cessnock City Council was recently successful in securing a hefty grant under round two of the NSW Government’s Regional Sports Facility Fund.

The cash injection will go towards new sporting amenities at Carmichael Park, Bellbird, including a four-bay practice net for male and female cricketers.

Cessnock City mayor Jay Suvaal said local residents would certainly benefit from the government handout.

“The Regional Sports Facility Fund assists eligible organisations to develop quality sporting infrastructure that meets the current and future needs of the community,” he stated.

“Carmichael Park is a highly-utilised sportsground, such as for football and cricket.

“The site contains a local playground, too, with picnic shelter, BMX track, amenities building, cricket nets and a small car park.

“Not only will we have a four-bay practice area, further additions include a full-size multi-purpose court and a hit up/rebound wall.

“This project forms part of the implementation of the adopted Masterplan for Carmichael Park, with the new facilities to be located adjacent to the planned upgrades to the BMX track.

“Council is currently in the procurement phase and works are expected to start in the coming months.”

Cr Suvaal said he was looking forward to seeing the development “kick off”.

“These major upgrades will see Carmichael Park transformed into a youth precinct,” he explained.

“I can’t wait to see local young people utilising the new facilities.

“I’d like to congratulate the council staff who continue to seek out and apply for these exciting grant funding opportunities.”

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