Russell Matheson is a local sporting legend himself so launching new sporting facilities yesterday afternoon meant he was in comfortable surroundings.
Indeed his speech officially opening a brand new amenities building at Fullwood Reserve was passionate enough to pass muster as a footy coach’s half time address.
Which was apt because Mr Matheson, the federal member for Macarthur, and the Campbelltown mayor, Paul Hawker, did the honours at half time in the Group 6 first grade rugby league clash between the Campbelltown City Kangaroos and the Oakdale Workers.
“Go the mighty Kangaroos,’’ Matheson roared at the end of his passionate speech on the importance of government helping to provide decent facilities for local sporting clubs.
The home side were leading 24-4 at the break and romped home in the second half 52-8.
Mr Matheson said future Macarthur region footy stars would benefit from the Turnbull Government’s investment in facilities at Fullwood Reserve.
The federal government chipped in $200,000 for the project through the Community Development Grants Program.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The upgrade of the Fullwood Reserve amenities is important for the local community, and the completed project provides a safe multi-use sporting venue for local and representative competitions in the region,’’ Mr Matheson said.[/social_quote]
The project works included the construction of two change rooms, eight shower cubicles, a disabled toilet and a referee’s room.
“It is estimated that the new amenities block will cater for over 2,000 people annually,” Mr Matheson said.
Club legend Tony “Skinny” Norton who had the honour of having the site named after him, said: “The people of Campbelltown really appreciate it. Russell Matheson has done a very good job.”
Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Paul Hawker, said the project was a prime example of effective partnerships between Federal and Local Governments.
“The amenities upgrade is a smart investment in recreation in Campbelltown,” Cr Hawker said.
Brian Brown