As members of the Iluka community stood and gazed across Ken Leeson Oval alongside Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan and representatives from Clarence Valley Council (CVC), including Mayor Jim Simmons last week, they proudly clapped and cheered as the completed upgrade to the local facility was officially opened to the public.

Jointly funded by the Federal Government and CVC, who contributed $500000 and $91502 respectively towards the project, the upgrades include new unisex facilities and disabled toilets, as well as new storage facilities.

“The existing facilities were nearing the end of their life and their location is disjointed from the majority of activities on the oval and would be better suited in a new location,” Mr Hogan said.

“This $500,000 grant means both men and women can better use the oval and its facilities.

“It also means better access for people with a disability.

 “New storage facilities for the different sporting groups have also been incorporated to allow them to store the equipment and tools they use.”

Mayor Jim Simmons said the project focused on fixing access issues and improving shade concerns, so the facility is better equipped to host teams throughout the year.

He said the new facility will encourage greater participation in team sports and support a healthy lifestyle for the community.

He added another exciting part of the project is the new storage room, which will enable local sporting groups to safely store equipment and tools.