In a significant boost to the longevity and future successes of grassroots Rugby League in the Cronulla-Sutherland district, Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres and the NRL yesterday announced the successful applicants for more than $845,000 in grants to local football clubs across NSW.
As a feature of the grants, Member for Miranda Eleni Petinos announced on Tuesday a $75,000 reconstruction of the Scylla Bay Oval - for the Como-Jannali Junior Rugby League Football Club - through the ‘Footy Facilities Fund’.
Sharks Group CEO Lyall Gorman welcomed the grant and the good works to be done therefrom, in saying that increased funding at junior levels is imperative in shoring up the future of our great game.
“Increased funding allows many things but not least it gives assurances to our junior players across our local league that they can enjoy and participate in Rugby League in a safe environment,” Gorman said.
“It will also no doubt encourage greater participation in our junior leagues, and that is something that we certainly encourage.”
Ms Petinos said the grant will be of great benefit the local sporting community, and paid her thanks to the work and funding of the NSW Government.
“Sport is a huge part of our way of life here in the Shire, and the NSW Government recognises that,” Ms Petinos said.
Cr Kent Johns, Mayor of Sutherland Shire Council, said that the much-needed upgrade would be instrumental in developing local talent.
“There's no doubt that an upgrade is necessary,” Cr Johns said.
“We recognise that in order to develop first grade players we need to provide first grade facilities for players of all ages starting with junior rugby league.
“We will work together with the club to ensure that we get the best possible outcome and thanks to the member for Miranda and the Minister, the $75,000 Football Facilities Grant has enabled council to bring the project forward,” he concluded.
Gwawley Oval North has also received an upgrade through this round of the Footy Facilities Fund.
