Gainsborough Oval is now in better condition to serve the local community after Kiama Municipal Council recently completed an upgrade of the facilities.
These upgrades have made the facilities safer, more accessible, and fit for purpose for local sporting groups and the wider community.
The sports field had experienced poor drainage, which impacted community use of the facility.
Kiama Council successfully secured a grant from the NSW Office of Sport to undertake investigations, design and construction works to improve oval drainage and usability.
To address the issue, a subsoil drainage system was installed.
The works also included the demolition of the damaged cricket pitch and its replacement with a new synthetic surface cricket pitch.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said Council was delighted with the way the project has enhanced the playing surface.
"A range of sports use Gainsborough Oval and we are delighted with the success of this upgrade," he said.
"This will now mean fewer days are lost in the future due to wet weather impacting the surface of the playing field."
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said the NSW Government is committed to supporting communities impacted by severe weather and flood events.
"The Sport Infrastructure Recovery Fund has provided $55 million to repair and reconstruct sports facilities damaged by floods so communities can get back to doing the things they love," he said.
"Sporting assets are at the heart of local communities. They ensure people have a place to participate in sport and encourage our communities to be healthy and active."
Local sports groups and associations who regularly use the oval were kept informed throughout the project, with alternative arrangements made during construction.
Construction started on 7 April 2026 and was completed in late June.
The oval is currently open to the public with organised sport set to resume in October once the oval grass is completely re-established.
This project is funded by the NSW Government.
