A stoush has broken out between The Nationals candidate Pat Conaghan and Independent Rob Oakeshott over funding for Oxley Oval.
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In 2016 the Nationals promised a re-elected Coalition government would fund a $100,000 upgrade of Oxley Oval.
The money would go towards an amenities block to be used by the Hastings River Cricket Association and Vikings Rugby Union Club.
The amenities block would 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.
Construction has not started due to a funding shortfall.
On April 18 Mr Conaghan said he was lobbying the federal government for the remaining $40,000 to make the project a reality.
"The Hastings Valley Vikings Rugby Union and Hastings River District Cricket's new clubhouse at Oxley Oval will provide the facilities our teams deserve," Mr Conaghan wrote on Facebook.
"I'm calling on The Nationals and Michael McCormack MP to fund the final $40,000 we need to make this project a reality."
It prompted Mr Oakeshott to ask why the project had been delayed.
"Compare the two photos, one just before the 2016 election shows the National Party promising a new clubhouse for Oxley Oval. Now, in 2019, we have just about the same photo op promising the same thing again," said Mr Oakeshott.
"If we compare the pair, we see a desperate National Party roping in quality local clubs to do their bidding, and no clubhouse has yet come of it.
"I will ensure it isn't just promised, I will ensure happens," he said.
Mr Conaghan said the $40,000 refers to a cost blowout of the project due to red tape.
He says Oxley Oval was a priority for him if elected.
"This is an iconic ground. (And was) once used for for a World Series cricket match.
"It is functional and beautiful and deserves first class facilities for its thousands of members and community who use it.
"I have strongly urged the DPM to consider this on behalf of the Port Macquarie people and will continue to fight for its completion."
Unfortunately due to some red tape and cost increases over this period there is now a $40,000.00 shortfall to secure the guaranteed construction.
- Patrick Conaghan
Teale Bryan from the Vikings Rugby Union Club said the federal government had been "very supportive" of the amenities block project.
"We are grateful to the federal government for the funding, patience and understanding in getting this facility off the ground."
He said the cost blow out was a result of the "sensitivity of the site".
Hastings River Cricket Association did not want to comment.
Completion of the project is expected by July 2019.