A multi-million dollar makeover has transformed the Stuart Park precinct into a top-class sporting venue and community hub.
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It's a destination to compete on the sports fields, exercise, play, relax, have a barbecue or take your pooch to the off-leash dog park.
The Stuart Park sporting precinct upgrade was officially opened on Thursday, July 2.
The almost $4 million project brought together $3.192 million from the state government and $800,000 from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.
Stuart Park, home to existing sports fields, has been improved with new spectator hills for watching games, better drainage, new change rooms, and the inclusion of plug and play outlets and Wi-Fi.
The existing amenities have been upgraded and now provide gender-neutral change rooms, unisex and ambulant toilets and improved canteen facilities.
The precinct also boasts new shelters, barbecues, seats, picnic tables, better pedestrian links, landscaping, road and car park upgrades and new bus parking and turnaround bays.
There are two popular outdoor multipurpose courts, a new petanque court and LED sports field lights.
That is in addition to the all-abilities playground, perimeter path and off-leash dog park, which opened in late 2019.
Port Macquarie Pirates president Leon Anderson described Stuart Park's transformation as amazing.
"To look around now, I think it's incredible," he said.
Mayor Peta Pinson said Stuart Park was vibrant, aesthetically pleasing and had so much to offer.
She said the upgrade was not just about sport but also about lifestyle, activity and having a community hub where people could enjoy the facilities.
Port Macquarie MP Leslie Williams said it was a really significant upgrade.
"I think what is exciting about it is the community can come here and literally see the whole area transformed," she said.
"We've been able to make sure we can cater for pretty well everyone here and I just think the result is absolutely incredible."
Council's group manager recreation, property and buildings Liam Bulley said the key outcomes included modernising the facilities and providing better facilities for females participating in sport.
The upgrade also makes the precinct more attractive to the wider community.
"It has really diversified how people use the space, which is exciting," Mr Bulley said.
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