Port Stephens Council is hoping the upcoming federal election could pay major dividends for the heavily-utilised Lakeside Sporting Complex.
The Raymond Terrace sportsground remains a popular home to many competitions and tournaments, including cricket, league and Oztag.
However, however it still requires a major facelift to ensure it stays that way in the future.
In 2024, the facility hosted more than 12,000 people for the Newcastle Hunter Rugby League (NHRL) finale, with that number due to increase this season.
NHRL recently signed a landmark sponsorship agreement with council for its annual finals series.
The play-offs will return to the Lakeside Sporting Complex, culminating in nine deciders on 13 September.
“It’s a great venue but, like any other in the region, it probably needs a bit of an upgrade,” president Brian Finlay said.
“The potential to stage more elite events, or maybe Newcastle Knights trials for example, is huge.”
Port Stephens councillor Giacomo Arnott agreed.
“We’ve just endorsed a new masterplan for the Lakeside Sporting Complex precinct,” he said.
“So, we’re now putting it out to the NSW and Commonwealth governments that we need money to fund it.
“We’d love to provide better grounds and better facilities for our local sporting groups… and the community.
“There’s a federal election coming up, so it’s a good time to put all the candidates on notice.
“Although we’re here to launch the finals series, we’re keen to secure funding so we can keep doing it moving forward.”
Already, one contender for the seat of Paterson, Laurence Antcliff, has promised $4.8 million towards the Lakeside Sporting Complex.
That investment is expected to deliver new changerooms and amenities, upgraded canteen and clubhouse, better lighting for night games and resurfaced fields for the players.
“I believe the club’s been left behind for nearly a decade by our local member… no funding, no support, just neglect,” he said.
“It’s important to back grassroots sports.
“And, with 1,000-plus members, this organisation is the beating heart of Raymond Terrace.
“They finally deserve a facility that they need.”
So far, sitting MP Meryl Swanson has pledged $1.2 million for the redevelopment of the Mallabula Sports Complex in the LGA.
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