$278,000 Grant Secured to Support Connell Park Redevelopment

PICTURED (L-R): Isaac Condran (Project Engineer), John Fyfe (Group Leader Infrastructure Services) Cr. Steve Allan (Mayor), Michael Kemp MP (Member for Oxley), Ashley Greenwood (Deputy General Manager – Operations)

Bellingen Shire Council has secured $278,000 in funding under the Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grants program to support the construction of the second amenity building at Connell Park, to be located near the new netball courts.

This additional funding, provided by the NSW Government’s Office of Responsible Gambling, will help offset increased construction costs and ensure the facility is safe, inclusive, and accessible for all users. The new amenity building will provide modern facilities for netball, football, cricket, archery, and other community sports, supporting the growing demand for high-quality sporting infrastructure in the region.

Mayor Cr. Steve Allan welcomed the funding, highlighting its importance in delivering much-needed community facilities.

“This grant is another fantastic announcement for the Bellingen Shire community,” he said. “The second amenity building will improve accessibility, enhance safety, and provide better facilities for players, spectators, and volunteers.

“We sincerely thank the NSW Government’s Office of Responsible Gambling for their support in making this possible.”

Council’s successful grant application was backed by strong community support, including endorsement from local sporting organisations such as Football, Cricket, Netball, Archery, Rugby League, The Y, and Bellingen High School.

Construction of the new amenity building is scheduled to commence in early 2025, with completion expected by late 2025.