The community is invited to help shape the future of sport and recreation across the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, with several important plans now open for public feedback.
Council has placed its Draft Sports Field Facilities Plan and Draft Sports Field Amenity Plan on public exhibition until 17 August 2026. Together, the plans will guide future investment in sports grounds and supporting infrastructure over the next decade.
The Draft Sports Field Facilities Plan focuses on playing surfaces and field infrastructure, including drainage, irrigation, lighting, fencing, parking, shade, seating, pathways and signage. The Draft Sports Field Amenity Plan complements this by addressing changerooms, public toilets, storage areas, kiosks, canteens, seating and other facilities that support clubs, players, officials, volunteers and spectators.
The Sports Field Amenity Plan also forms part of Council’s broader Draft Community Spaces Plan, which includes the Draft Public Toilet Plan and Draft Community Hall Plan.
Council is encouraging sporting clubs, associations, volunteers, players, parents, officials and other users of local sporting facilities to review the draft plans and provide feedback. Community input will help identify priorities and guide future planning and investment.
Residents can learn more and speak with Council staff at community pop-up sessions being held at:
- Vince Inmon Sporting Complex – Saturday 18 July, 9am to 11am
- Bain Park, Wauchope – Wednesday 22 July, 9am to 11am
- Stuart Park, Port Macquarie – Saturday 25 July, 9am to 11am
- Westport Markets, Port Macquarie – Saturday 8 August, 8am to 1pm
The consultation builds on Council’s Recreation and Open Space Action Plan 2025–2030, which provides the long-term strategic framework for recreation, sport and community spaces across the region. Council will soon begin the next review of the plan, creating further opportunities for sporting clubs and associations to help shape future priorities.
Council is also continuing to strengthen its partnership with the local sporting community through the Port Macquarie-Hastings Sports Council, which provides advice on strategic priorities and future sports infrastructure.
In another boost for local sport, NSW Touch Football has confirmed the Senior State Cup will remain in Port Macquarie for the next two years following a successful Council tender. The event will return in 2027 for its 50th tournament, reinforcing the region’s reputation as one of NSW’s premier sporting destinations.
Council also reminds sporting clubs and user groups to familiarise themselves with the Terms and Conditions for the use of Council sporting facilities, including responsibilities relating to bookings, insurance, wet weather closures and maintaining facilities after use.
To view the draft plans, learn more about the consultation or provide feedback before Monday 17 August 2026, visit Council’s Have Your Say website.
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