John Chedid the Liberal candidate for Parramatta has welcomed Peter Debnam’s announcement of a new $40 million playing field upgrades program. 

“I am glad Peter Debnam has acknowledged the need to act on this important local issue and I will work closely with local sporting groups to secure funding to upgrade our local playing fields,’ John said today.

“We need to encourage greater local involvement in organised sporting activities to boost community fitness and well being, and if we are serious about encouraging greater participation then it is important that we ensure the availability of playing fields.

“The poor condition of many playing fields can seriously hamper sporting participation. In particular, the drought and related water restrictions has resulted in the closure of many playing fields because they are unsafe for use.

To maximise opportunities for sporting activity on playing fields The NSW Liberal/Nationals Coalition will allocate $40 million to upgrade playing fields across NSW, including;

 $10 million to be allocated for grants to install lighting or carry out other upgrades at local playing fields across NSW.

 $30 million for grants to install rainwater or stormwater harvesting equipment to enable watering of local playing fields across NSW, including the installation of rainwater tanks and irrigation equipment.

Local councils, sporting clubs and associations will be able to apply directly for funding for these measures.

“This is a practical initiative that will make a real difference to the quality of our local playing fields and I will look forward to working with the community to secure local upgrades,” John said.

In addition, $10 million will also be allocated for a new Sporting Clubs Small Grants Program to assist sporting clubs to protect their existing membership base and attract new members.  Applications for funding will be assessed against the potential to protect or secure members as well as the potential to increase sporting participation within the local community.

These initiatives to promote healthier eating in our schools form part of Peter Debnam’s new $77 million ‘Life. Get Into It’ health and fitness policy.