It would include a combined clubhouse amenities block and undergo a significant expansion and renovation of the change rooms.

“Oxley Oval is one of the state’s most picturesque grounds and deserves a premium, functional amenities complete with a canteen and disability access to match its status as a major regional sportsground,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“It is steeped in history, having hosted World Series Cricket in 1979, and a stunning location, so we need to showcase it.”

Significant fundraising and design work has been undertaken in the past few years by Shane Williams from the Hastings River District Cricket Association, Vikings Rugby Union Club project co-ordinator Teale Bryan and the Port Macquarie sports fraternity.

Mr Williams said the oval was a regional drawcard for schools and junior and open sports teams.

“This oval regularly hosts regional sports carnivals drawing hundreds of players and supporters from Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour and Grafton, so we need to showcase it and have the facilities to support those numbers,” he said.

“Our Cricket Association wants to attract more exhibition matches and NSW Country Cricket Carnivals, similar to those played at Coffs Harbour, but we could not do this without a major improvement of amenities. 

Mr Bryan said both clubs has raised significant funds to match the Coalition Government grant and they had applied for a Work for the Dole team to undertake some initial toilet upgrades by Christmas and knock down and re-build the club house once the funding was received.