Bellingen Shire Secures $200,000 Grant for Cricket Upgrades
Published on 07 February 2025
Bellingen Shire Council is pleased to announce its successful application for a $200,000 grant from the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund (ACIF), a joint initiative between Cricket NSW and Cricket Australia.
This funding will enable the construction of state-of-the-art three-lane cricket training nets. The new training facility will complement the resurfacing of the two cricket pitches, which include a new turf wicket, further progressing the vision of the Connell Park Masterplan.
Mayor Cr. Steve Allan expressed gratitude for the funding and highlighted the significance of the project for the community.
“This grant will assist Council in providing modern, inclusive, and high-quality facilities for our community,” he said. “The new cricket training nets and upgraded playing fields will not only support our local cricket players but also inspire a new generation to take up the sport.”
Connell Park is currently undergoing a transformative redevelopment guided by its comprehensive Masterplan, which aims to enhance its facilities to better serve a wide range of sports and community activities.
The state-of-the-art three-lane cricket training nets and additional upgrades to the playing fields will complement these works and drive outcomes such as increased participation, while enhancing facilities to support regional competitions and school programs.
Bellingen Cricket Club partnered with Bellingen Shire Council in preparing the grant application, reinforcing the community’s strong support for the initiative. This additional funding was made possible thanks to the significant investment already made in cricket at Connell Park, including the development of new fields and modern amenities.
The construction is set to commence in early 2025 and will be completed by June 2025, aligning with field upgrade works.
“Cricket Australia is pleased to support the delivery of the proposed new three lane facility at Bellingen Cricket Club,” said Fiona Baxter, Head of Infrastructure at Cricket Australia. “This facility will play a key role in supporting the Club’s training and development needs and will assist with driving participation growth now and into the future.”
The approved grant is a significant boost for the region, fostering talent development and ensuring equitable access to top-tier facilities for players of all ages and skill levels.
“We’re excited about the opportunities this project brings, particularly for young players and female cricketers who will benefit from inclusive and modern amenities at Connell Park,” Mayor Cr. Steve Allan added.