Women’s sport is set to kick some major goals in the region after University of Newcastle Rugby Union picked up a $1.5 million windfall.
The grant, part of the Labor government’s Play Our Way Program (POWP), aims to remove barriers, address discrimination and promote equality for females to participate in physical activity.
Now, buoyed by the funding, two dedicated changerooms, an accessible bathroom and parents’ rooms will be delivered at Bernie Curran Oval, providing an inclusive environment.
The organisation has been based there for the past 70 years.
However, the Callaghan Campus’ ageing facilities have hampered the growth of women’s sport, according to the club’s vice-president Liam Wales-Brown.
“In addition to female participation in rugby union, there will be a tremendous benefit to our peers in league, cricket, touch football and squash,” he said.
“So, we’d like to extend our thanks to the federal government for its consideration of this project and subsequent awarding of funding for its delivery.
“Without the grant we would not have been able to remove this barrier to female participation in union.
“There is a long list of people who helped to take this concept from an idea and turn it into a genuine plan – thank you all very much for your assistance.
“To our female players, I would like to thank you for your patience and tolerance over the years.
“I’m thrilled that we are finally in a position to provide you with the facilities that you deserve and that are long overdue.”
A covered spectator area and accessible ramp is also proposed to support families attending games and promote Bernie Curran Oval as a premier local sporting ground.
“Congratulations to University of Newcastle Rugby Union for its leadership in securing this funding,” Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon said.
“I’m confident its project to increase female participation in sport will have a very positive effect for women and girls in Newcastle.
“Every person should be given the opportunity to participate and enjoy sport, in their own way and at the level that suits them.
“The Albanese government is levelling that playing field.”
University of Newcastle Rugby Union is one of the 166 groups around the nation selected to receive Play Our Way funding for new or modified facilities for women and girls across a range of sports.
The funding will complement the $55.6 million offered to 124 organisations under Stream 2: Participation and Equipment, with a focus on facilities for women and girls who face additional barriers to participation.
This includes those who have a disability, are First Nations people or from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
“The Play Our Way Program is all about creating greater opportunities for women and girls to have an equal chance to get the fun, satisfaction and health benefits sport offers,” Minister for Sport Anika Wells said.
“The huge response to the grants, and the range of great project ideas, show that Australian communities want to be more supportive of women and girls.”
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