The Abermain-Weston Hawks Rugby League Football Club is set to fly in 2024, thanks to a $90,000 windfall.
The much-appreciated grant, via the NSW Government as part of its $37.2 million Local Small Commitments Allocation Program (LSCA), will allow the organisation to upgrade the lighting, including energy-efficient and eco-friendly LED fixtures, at the Howe Park sporting field.
The enhancements are not only expected to improve player safety at the ground, it also opens the door for the Hawks to host night matches at the venue.
Abermain-Weston RLFC president Ryan Hall welcomed the news.
“This is something the club has working towards for eight years,” he said.
“The previous committee started asking for improvements/grants for lights back then and continued to put in for funding until we were successful.
“Thanks to Cessnock MP Clayton Barr, we finally got it across the line.
“For a small club like the Hawks, this type of grant means everything.
“It’s huge as far as safety, which is the number one benefit.
“Unfortunately, the current lighting is not safe of a night-time for training.
“Now, the players’ safety is going to increase and the lights will bring further advantages, including potential revenue from night games, lower electricity bills and more.”
The LSCA provides funding for a wide range of projects, which will improve local communities and offer benefits to people across each of the 93 electorates in NSW.
It consists of more than 600 small ventures, ranging from capital works, services and programs, events, supplies and equipment, charitable donations, and playground and park upgrades.
“I’m delighted to help the Abermain-Weston Hawks,” Barr said.
“This lighting upgrade will allow them to train and play night fixtures if needed.
“I am always excited when funding is made available for projects, big and small, across the electorate of Cessnock.”
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