Casino Cricket Club is set to upgrade its turf wicket facilities after securing $10,000 through the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program.
The funding will go towards the installation of irrigation systems at the club’s two turf fields at Queen Elizabeth Park in Casino — QE7 (John McDonald Oval) and QE2 — helping improve pitch preparation and long-term maintenance.
State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson recently visited the grounds alongside club representatives and players to officially welcome the funding announcement.
The project will involve excavation works around the pitches, installation of underground pipework and sprinklers, connection to the main water supply and the addition of a timing system designed to improve irrigation efficiency.
Mr Williamson said the upgrades would help maintain the grounds to a regional competition standard while supporting the continued growth of cricket in Casino and across the Richmond Valley.
“Casino Cricket Club plays an important role in providing sporting opportunities for players of all ages across the region and this funding will help ensure their facilities continue to be maintained to a very high standard,” he said.
“These upgrades will support local competitions, attract visiting teams from across Northern NSW and importantly continue to provide quality turf wickets for senior, junior and female cricketers.”
Casino Cricket Club secretary Clinton Carey said the irrigation project would significantly improve the club’s ability to prepare and maintain quality playing surfaces.
“Previously we have hand watered and used sprinklers to maintain adequate moisture for pitch preparation,” Mr Carey said.
“A dedicated watering system will provide regular and targeted irrigation, providing for better pitch moisture regulation, easier pitch maintenance for our curator, and awesome grounds for visiting cricket teams to experience.”
Mr Carey said maintaining quality turf facilities was essential as the club continued competing in competitions across the Far North Coast region.
“As a club that competes in competitions across the Far North Coast, it is important our turf facilities are maintained to a regional standard,” he said.
“This will ensure cricket continues to be played in Casino for years to come as we host clubs from throughout Northern NSW in various grades and competitions.”
The improved facilities are also expected to benefit junior and women’s cricket, including events such as the Lismore Under 12 Carnival and the T20 Women’s Smash.
Mr Williamson congratulated the club’s committee, volunteers and players on securing the grant, acknowledging their contribution to community sport in the Richmond Valley.
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