The growing community of Rainbow Beach will receive upgraded sporting facilities under a Coalition Government, with The Nationals candidate for Lyne Alison Penfold committing to $350,000 funding to install lighting at the existing multi-purpose court and three cricket nets on the grounds.
Ms Penfold said supporting the development of the grounds was a long-term investment in the lifestyle and liveability of the growing community.
"These sports fields offer district level facilities for cricket, soccer and AFL as well as a multi-purpose court used by netballers, making them an incredibly valuable and well-used asset in the community," Ms Penfold said.
"The netball and cricket clubs boast over 600 members between them, which proves these are strong, growing grassroots groups which deserve support.
"Right now, the Lake Cathie Netball Club can't train on the netball court during the season due to the lack of lighting at the court, and while they currently have permission to use an indoor facility at the Lake Cathie Public School, it's only a temporary solution.
"We can rectify that and create a truly user-friendly court by helping with the cost of installing lighting, so that netballers can use it during the winter playing season.
"Putting in three cricket nets will also give the Bonny Hills Lake Cathie Cricket Club the extra set-up they need to cater for their growing membership and competition schedule. This is the first year the club has established a female cricket competition and it would be great to support their drive and commitment by providing some help with the cost of cricket nets."
Ms Penfold stressed the importance of maintaining and modernising sporting grounds and facilities in rural and regional areas to ensure they continued to be well-used and valued community assets.
"I am very pleased to be able to get behind a grassroots project that will make the entire area a better place to live, play and stay for many years to come.
"The Nationals are the only party with our finger on the pulse of our communities and understand that targeted and strategic investment is the best way to achieve these kinds of projects.
"And with the establishment of the $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund, we will be able to do so much more."
