Glen Innes Severn Council is set to deliver a major boost for local rugby league, securing a $50,000 NSW Rugby League Infrastructure grant, matched by a previously allocated $50,000 Council contribution. The investment will see two new full-size playing and training fields completed at Kerry Mead Park – a significant step forward for the home of the Glen Innes Magpies.
Council’s contribution is being delivered in a smart, cost-effective way, with soil already approved for removal from the Glen Innes Indoor Sports Centre site to be repurposed for levelling, landscaping, and drainage at the park.
Mayor Margot Davis said the project is a direct response to what the community has been calling for.
“This project addresses a clear need for more suitable playing and training space in Glen Innes,” Cr Davis said. “By using soil already being removed from another Council site, we’re delivering these upgrades in a cost-effective way that makes practical sense for the community.”
The works will include levelling, turfing, drainage installation, and surrounding landscaping to ensure the new fields meet NSW Rugby League competition and training standards.
Once complete, Kerry Mead Park will offer four usable fields – a transformation that will ease pressure on existing facilities and reduce reliance on unsuitable off-site grounds. The expanded capacity will provide safe, dedicated space for nearly 300 junior and senior players, including the region’s rapidly growing girls’ and women’s teams.
Mayor Davis said the benefits will be felt well beyond the sidelines. “The extra fields will ease pressure on existing facilities and ensure local clubs, schools, and families have access to safe, purpose-built grounds,” she said.
“This is about providing reliable infrastructure that supports participation now and into the future, and Council is pleased to work with NSW Rugby League to make that happen.”
The upgrades will also allow multiple age-group fixtures to be hosted on the same day and improve
facilities for visiting Group 19 teams and school competitions. By ensuring all teams can train and play at a single, fit-for-purpose venue, the project strengthens long-term participation and development pathways for rugby league in Glen Innes.
The funding deed for the project is expected to be signed this month, with works to commence shortly after.
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