The project will involve the construction of a new amenities block, which will include two change rooms, including toilets and showers as well as disability access, a new first aid and referees room, a canteen and a viewing area.

The $320,000 project is being jointly funded by the federal government, the state government, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, Hastings Valley Vikings Rugby Union, Hastings River District Cricket Association and Cricket NSW.

Member for Cowper, Luke Hartsuyker, said the upgrade would provide a much needed revamp of the sporting facility.

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

“I love projects where there is a ground swell of support and the project comes together with support from the whole community.

“Oxley Oval has hosted a number of Mid North Coast Rugby Union Finals, attracting large crowds of locals and visitors from across the state.

“It’s fantastic to see what can be achieved with all three levels of government working hard to deliver for our local community.”

Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor, Peta Pinson said council are proud to have been working closely with local sporting groups, and in partnership with the federal and state governments on proposed improvements to facilities at one of our countries most scenic sporting ovals.

“Our local sporting clubs including rugby and cricket can look forward to a wonderful new clubhouse, that will add to our range of top-class local sporting facilities and further enhance our regions’ reputation as a sporting destination of choice,” Cr Pinson said.

Member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams also said the upgrades will be well utilised.

“Oxley Oval is a well utilised and valuable community asset and any funding to upgrade this picturesque facility is a worthwhile investment,” Mrs Williams said.

“I am pleased to contribute funding alongside Federal and Local Governments to improve the clubhouse for the benefit of so many local sporting users.”

State infrastructure manager for Cricket NSW, Dee Brock, said the facility will provide vital supporting infrastructure to the region. 

“It will be a terrific community asset that the whole of the local community will have access to and in particular the local cricket clubs of Port Macquarie Juniors, Port City, Port Macquarie and Port Pirates senior clubs,” Ms Brock said.

“It is also an important step in collectively working to address the non-existent or outdated female friendly amenities and change rooms at sporting facilities across the state to ensure we continue to cater for the growth of women and girls sport in NSW.”