There was a collective cheer from sporting clubs and associations across Campbelltown this week when they were told by council they would not have to pay ground hire fees this season.
The letter from council informed clubs and associations that they would be reimbursed for anything they have already paid.
Even better, any outstanding invoices would not have to be paid, the council said in the letter.
One of the clubs to benefit was the Campbelltown City Kangaroos, whose home ground is Fullwood Reserve in Claymore.
Club secretary Alex Melville, who welcomed the council decision, said it would mean a saving of around $3,000 for the club.
“The club is highly appreciative of Mayor George Greiss, deputy mayor Warren Morrison and the team at council,’’ Mr Melville said.
“It’s a huge saving for us, I assure you of that.
“It means we can use the money to put gears on the players’ backs – put back into the community via the players.’’
Mayor Greiss popped down to Fullwood Reserve yesterday afternoon at the request of the South West Voice, and he was met by male and female players, Mr Melville and club director Robert Melville.
After being thanked personally by the historic rugby league club’s representatives, Mr Greiss said it showed how important it was for council to work with sport and other community groups.
He said that in that regard it was a great decision by the council.
“It’s been a tough couple of years for everybody, council understands that, which is why we are not charging ground hire fees, to help clubs get back on their feet,’’ Cr Greiss said.
The decision will cost council close to $76,000 in ground hire revenue.
“This past season in particular has seen an unprecedented amount of rain affect our grounds and severely impact the ability of our sports clubs to get on the park and play games,” Cr Greiss said.
“On top of that, recent years have placed a significant strain on local sporting clubs and associations following the pandemic.
“This decision will assist clubs financially following a few difficult years, and hopefully help them plan for a return to normality in 2023,” he said.
As for Campbelltown City Kangaroos, formed 114 years ago in 1908 and still going strong, the council decision is more than just a financial boost.
“We have three teams vying for Grand Final spots this weekend. We are underdogs in all three games, but the boys will have a red-hot crack and we’ll see how we go,’’ Mr Melville said.
The Kangaroos Ladies League Tag are already in the Grand Final scheduled for 1pm on Saturday, September 10.
Pictured above are: [from left to right] U/18 player Scott Thomas, club secretary Alex Melville, LLTag’s Adrianne Gilbert, U/18s Jayden Heaton, Mayor George Greiss, U/18s Cooper Stephens, LLTag’s Jess Ellwood, U/18s Tyde Pilsworth and club director Robert Melville.
Great job George