Weston Bears FC will host A-League outfit Melbourne City FC in the Australia Cup Round of 32 next month, with the club set to showcase their upgraded home ground.
The match will kick off at 2pm on Sunday 26 August at Weston Bears Park and it will be one of the biggest fixtures played at the venue since its $3 million upgrade.
The redevelopment was funded through the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Program.
The program transformed the Weston Bears Park into one of the Hunter’s premier football facilities.
Officially unveiled in March, the project included a refurbished grandstand with a new clubroom, canteen, office and members’ area.
New team changerooms, referee facilities and a gym were also built.
The upgrade also delivered improved spectator amenities, a new car park and landscaping.
Cessnock City Mayor Dan Watton said the venue was ready to host a major national fixture.
“The impressive upgrades completed earlier this year certainly make Weston Bears Park a fitting location to host a major team like Melbourne City,” he said.
“It will be wonderful to see the community fill this state-of-the-art facility and throw their support behind the Bears as they take on a formidable opponent.”
The Australia Cup is Football Australia’s national knockout competition and brings together clubs from every level of the game, including A-League teams.
Founded in 1907, Weston Bears FC is one of Australia’s oldest football clubs and currently competes in Northern NSW’s National Premier League competition.
The redevelopment follows Cessnock City Council’s adoption of the Weston Bears Park Masterplan in 2020.
The plan was developed with input from Weston Bears Football Club, Weston Junior Football Club, Weston Workers Club and the local community.
The upgrades aim to improve the experience for players, officials and spectators.
They also provide modern facilities for the growing number of people using the park each year.
The Australia Cup clash is expected to attract a strong crowd, giving Hunter football fans the chance to watch an A-League club play in the region.
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