Bega Valley Shire Council invites the community to celebrate the official opening of the upgraded Ian Horton Pavilion at George Brown Oval in Eden on Sunday 10 May at 12pm.
The pavilion now features adaptable changerooms that can be used as separate male and female spaces as required, improved accessible amenities and an upgrade to the roof structure and spectator viewing area, creating a more accessible and inclusive space for players, officials and the wider community.
Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said the upgrade reflects strong collaboration between Council and the local sporting community.
"This project began with a clear need identified by the community and we are grateful to the Eden Tigers Rugby League Committee for their contribution in helping refine the project scope and designs," Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
"The committee's input has ensured the new facilities are practical, inclusive and responsive to the rapid growth in women's rugby league and touch football.
"These improvements deliver a fit-for-purpose, modern pavilion that promotes a sense of safety and belonging for players, volunteers and visiting teams, while supporting the long-term sustainability of sport in our community.
"We are also grateful for funding provided by the Australian and NSW governments, whose support made this important project possible."
Federal Member for Eden-Monaro and Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and the Territories, Kristy McBain, said the upgrade was a great outcome for the community.
"This project has been on the wishlist for the Eden Tigers for several years and I'm grateful for their continued advocacy because what we see now is a fantastic project, ensuring women have equal access to quality changeroom facilities. I'm proud to be part of a Government that has contributed to its delivery for the community.
"I'm excited to check out the finished space and celebrate with the Eden Tigers and the wider community at the official opening."
NSW Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris MP said he was proud the ClubGrants program is continuing to invest in local communities across the state.
"We all know how important sport clubs are to the health and social fabric of regional communities such as Bega.
"This combination of state and federal funding, together with the efforts of Bega Valley Shire Council and local sports clubs, have delivered a superbly refurbished pavilion and associated facilities that players, volunteers, spectators and the broader community will get so much out of for years to come.
"It is particularly pleasing to see the rapidly growing number of local women footy players will be well catered for with the new inclusive facilities at the pavilion."
The project was supported by $250,000 from the Australian Government's Investing in Our Communities program, $200,000 from the NSW Government's ClubGRANTS program and Council.
