The first official sod of soil has been turned on a massive $1.9 million revitalisation of Moree’s home of sport, Ron Harborne Oval.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall joined Moree Plains Shire Deputy Mayor Susannah Pearse and local sporting club representatives late last week to begin the much-anticipated project. The revitalisation has been years in the making, and made possible with several grants secured from the State and Federal Governments.
Mr Marshall said Moree Plains Shire Council had developed an impressive masterplan for the total upgrade of the Ron Harborne Oval precinct, to support the continuation and growth of junior and senior sports, including, cricket, soccer, netball and athletics.
“Stage 1 of these exciting upgrades includes a new clubhouse for multiple sports, parenting room, accessible toilets, a new kitchen and canteen and storage facilities,” Mr Marshall said.
“Ron Harborne Oval is the main sporting precinct in Moree and the home of netball, soccer, hockey, athletics, cricket, and junior rugby union’s annual gala day.
“This is such an exciting project and I commend council on its foresight and desire to develop this important asset for multiple sporting groups.
“The revitalisation will be crucial to boost community morale and assist in the attraction and retention of the local workforce and general population.”
Mr Marshall said further improvements would include a new carparks with accessible pathways linking to the clubhouse facility.
“The main component of the upgrade is the construction of the new netball courts using flood mitigation strategies close to the main amenities,” he said.
“The netball courts received significant damage due to floor events in the past, rendering them unsafe.
“Council have now implemented flood mitigation strategies to construct the new courts, with LED lighting, on a raised pad close to the main cricket oval, ensuring the facilities will be above flood levels.”
Works on Stage 1 should be completed this calendar year.
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