State Nationals MP for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has announced Casino Cricket Club has received a $10,000 funding boost through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program to support important upgrades to the club’s turf cricket facilities at Queen Elizabeth Park in Casino.
Mr Williamson recently joined club representatives and players at the grounds to officially welcome the funding announcement, which will assist with the installation of irrigation systems at the club’s two turf fields, QE7 (John McDonald Oval) and QE2.
The project will include excavation works around each pitch, laying pipe and sprinklers, connection to the main water line, and the implementation of a timing system to improve irrigation efficiency and turf maintenance.
Mr Williamson said the project would help ensure the club’s facilities continue to meet regional competition standards and support the future growth of cricket in Casino.
“Casino Cricket Club plays an important role in providing sporting opportunities for players of all ages across the region and this funding will help ensure their facilities continue to be maintained to a very high standard,” Mr Williamson said.
“These upgrades will support local competitions, attract visiting teams from across Northern NSW and importantly continue to provide quality turf wickets for senior, junior and female cricketers.”
Casino Cricket Club Secretary Clinton Carey said the irrigation project would make a significant difference to pitch preparation and maintenance.
“Previously we have hand watered and used sprinklers to maintain adequate moisture for pitch preparation,” Mr Carey said.
“A dedicated watering system will provide regular and targeted irrigation, providing for better pitch moisture regulation, easier pitch maintenance for our curator, and awesome grounds for visiting cricket teams to experience.
“Keeping a great sporting experience in Casino is an important focus for our club.”
Mr Carey said the funding would also help support the continued growth of cricket participation in the region.
“As a club that competes in competitions across the Far North Coast, it is important our turf facilities are maintained to a regional standard,” he said.
“This will ensure cricket continues to be played in Casino for years to come as we host clubs from throughout Northern NSW in various grades and competitions.”
“The grant will also help us continue to make great turf wickets accessible to our senior, junior and female cricketers in competitions such as the Lismore Under 12 Carnival and the T20 Women’s Smash.”
