Minister visits Woy Woy oval

The State Minister for Sport and Recreation Mr Graham Annesley visited Woy Woy Oval on Friday, August 24, to inspect the soon to be demolished grandstand.

Gosford Councillors Jeff Strickson, Chris Burke and deputy mayor Craig Doyle were also in attendance, and were accompanied by Gosford Council officers.

Minister for the Central Coast Mr Chris Hartcher said the decision made by Gosford councillors to demolish the existing facility and redevelop the entire site would be of huge benefit to the many sporting clubs that utilise the site.

"Good facilities allow local sporting clubs to thrive and make it easier for everyone to participate in physical activity," Mr Hartcher said.

"This presents an exciting opportunity to develop the site in line with the needs of those local sporting clubs and with their input considered."

Mr Annesley reminded local not-for-profit organisations, local government authorities and Gosford Council that round one applications in the Sport and Recreation Participation and Facility Program close on September3.

"The program offers grants capped at $10,000 for participation projects and $50,000 for facility projects," Mr Annesley said.

"Organisations may apply for multiple projects or project types, with the maximum available to any one organisation in a financial year capped at $50,000.

"Projects eligible to be funded include the construction of new facilities, as well as the enhancement of existing facilities, as well as training costs which lead to increased participation opportunities."

Member for Gosford Mr Chris Holstein said that while Gosford Council had pledged $1.75 million towards the new grandstand, he hoped that the Council and all sporting groups would consider applying to the grants program.

"The NSW Government is committed to investing in our communities to encourage sport and physical activity," Mr Holstein said.

"The new grandstand will make a huge difference to how Woy Woy Oval is utilised and I look forward to seeing the plans as they develop."

Applications for a second round of grants will be available late January.

Media Release, 24 Aug 2012

Caroline Hutcherson, Office of Chris Hartcher MP