Sir Jack Brabham Field is poised to undergo a significant upgrade, courtesy of a generous grant amounting to $30,000 from the NSW Football Legacy Fund.
This substantial financial support has enabled Orange Council to expedite the installation of an advanced lighting system worth over $65,000.
This has considerably enhanced the field’s capacity to accommodate extended hours of usage for all football participants.
The existing lighting system has reached the end of its efficient operational lifespan.
However, this upgrade will ensure that local footballers have access to superior lighting that is in line with the Australian Lighting Minimum Standards. This will provide a secure environment during evening football activities.
The implementation of the new lighting system will have a variety of benefits. It will notably improve visibility during evening matches and training sessions, creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all the female participants and in-turn all football participants. Additionally, the lighting system offers economic advantages as well, with its prolonged lifespan compared to the previous lighting system at the venue, along with its reduced energy consumption.
Orange and District Football Association caters to over 2,300 football participants, with female participation experiencing remarkable growth in recent years. Since 2020, there has been a noteworthy 40% increase in female involvement, serving as a testament to the region’s profound passion for football.
This project aligns directly with the objectives outlined in the NSW Football Infrastructure Strategy, particularly in terms of enhancing existing venue capacity and effectively planning for future growth and demand. It also corresponds to the key objectives set forth by the NSW Football Legacy Fund.
“Lighting quality at sporting venues depreciates over time, so the importance of these lighting upgrades is monumental to ensuring not only extended usage but safety for all participants,” said Football NSW’s Legacy Facilities and Grants Officer, James Spanoudakis
Round 2 of Legacy Fund is now open with the Infrastructure Stream closing on Friday 11 August and the Participation Stream closing Friday, 7 July 2023.
This is the final round of the Legacy Fund, don’t miss out!
To apply, visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/grants/nsw-football-legacy-fund
The NSW Government recently announced a $3.1 million investment into more than 100 grassroots football projects across the state to help improve facilities and run programs to boost player participation as part of the NSW Football Legacy Fund.
The investment is intended to broaden female player options and increase participation opportunities, whilst enhancing football facilities and supporting infrastructure. This fund also aims to assist clubs in developing football programs at all levels through the construction or upgrading of community facilities, leadership, and development initiatives.
As Australia prepares to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, strengthening the football community in NSW is key to matching the unprecedented level of interest in female football. The NSW Football Legacy Fund seeks to ensure it has the facilities and programming to match the buzz that the FIFA World Cup is generating for Australia’s next generation of future Matildas.
More information about the NSW Football Legacy Fund is available here.