New shared pathways, a skate park, a playground, a multi-sport court and more are on the way for the Tilligerry Peninsula in 2021, thanks to funding from the Australian Government, NSW Government and Council's PS2020 projects fund.
Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer and Central Ward Councillors Chris Doohan and Steve Tucker announced the projects and funding this afternoon at Mallabula Sports Complex.
"We're excited to announce over $2.4 million of recreation projects for the Tilligerry Peninsula coming in 2021!" Mayor Palmer said.
"This includes shared pathways connecting the peninsula, improvements to reserves and the transformation of Mallabula Sports Complex into an active hub with playground, multi-sport court, another tennis court, skate park, seating, amenities and pathways.
"Thanks to the hard work of our staff, we have been successful in receiving over $450,000 grant funding from the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and the NSW Government's Crown Reserves Improvement Fund and Stronger Country Communities Fund.
"Combined with Council's PS2020 project fund, this is a huge investment in the Tilligerry Peninsula to create a new active hub that will be an asset for the whole community.
"This means more opportunities for locals and visitors to get outside and enjoy this beautiful part of the world — whether it's going for a walk, a bike ride, skating, having a hit of tennis, kicking a ball or shooting hoops.
"The community has been waiting patiently for these upgrades and I know they're going to be thrilled with the results," he said.
Council's Community and Recreation Coordinator Brock Lamont says it's a great result for the Tilligerry community.
"Thanks to our successful grant applications, we now have even more funds to truly transform the Mallabula Sports Complex into an active hub for all ages — perfect for the families who call the peninsula home.
"This includes a new toilet and shared pathways in the active hub to make it safer and more accessible for everyone.
"We'll soon be getting to work on constructing a new playground for younger users with accessible elements as well as a multi-sport court for basketball, netball, soccer and handball that's fun for all ages."
Mr Lamont says the new skate park will also be located at the Mallabula Sports Complex.
"After extensive community consultation, we've listened to the 75% of respondents who wanted the skate park to remain at Mallabula. By integrating the skate park into our active hub, we'll be able to create a family-friendly place for locals and visitors.
"While this will mean the removal of the existing BMX track, we'll be creating a new recreation destination that will cater for more people, so that families of all ages can come and have fun.
"We'll be working with the community to design the new skate park in the coming months. I'd encourage everyone to get involved in the planning process so we can make sure we get the best outcome for users," he said.
