This vital lighting upgrade, a $766,000 investment, was secured through the Play Our Way program and demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing local sports infrastructure.
With their successful grant application, the Raymond Terrace Roosters enlisted the support of Port Stephens Council to help facilitate the project.
Mayor Leah Anderson praised the collaboration and said this is a great example of the strong partnership between community groups and Council working together to deliver a project.
"The Lakeside Sports Complex is an important piece of infrastructure for our community, especially for our junior sporting clubs. The lighting upgrade will increase the accessibility for field users to hold later training sessions and night games," Mayor Anderson said.
"This project is a perfect example of how Council and community groups can partner effectively. When a group is proactive about securing grants, we can help them facilitate the upgrades for the whole community," Mayor Anderson added.
Raymond Terrace Roosters President, Craig Langdon, praised the straightforward process of securing the grant and working with Council.
"The entire process, from applying for the grant to asking for Council's help, was really smooth," Mr Langdon said.
"Council was incredibly supportive, and having that good relationship made everything happen much faster.
"I would like to thank the Lakeside Village Cricket Club and the Northern Hawks Rugby League Club for their support during the grant process."
Mr Langdon said there can be upwards of 700 people using the fields at Lakeside Sports Complex during a season.
"This upgrade is hopefully the first of many as we aim to become a more desirable venue, capable of hosting larger events and attracting more sporting fixtures," he said.
Mayor Anderson said the upgrades also have the potential to create an economic boost for the region.
"These upgrades are just the first step in the Lakeside Sports Complex Masterplan that was adopted by Council in July last year. Having upgraded facilities will hopefully give people the confidence to travel here for future sporting events," Mayor Anderson said.
"Council is committed to helping clubs secure grant funding for these kinds of upgrades. It's a true partnership that delivers real benefits for the whole community.
"On behalf of Council, I want to thank the Raymond Terrace Roosters Committee. Your partnership and hard work were essential in both securing the grant and working with Council to make these upgrades a reality," Mayor Anderson concluded.
