Casino’s Queen Elizabeth Park Rugby League Clubhouse has officially reopened, rebuilt with flood resilience in mind after it was extensively damaged in the 2022 floods.
The new $1.6 million clubhouse was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments through the Community Assets Program under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The rebuilt facility includes modern change rooms for players, officials, volunteers and spectators, and is designed to improve accessibility and support greater participation in local sport.
Richmond Valley Council received $8.1 million through the Community Assets Program for a total of six projects, including a suspension bridge across the Richmond River in Casino, new facilities for the Woodburn Pony Club, Woodburn Tennis Club and Woodburn Memorial Hall, and upgrades for Casino Netball and the Casino Memorial Pool Swimming Club. The $70 million program, jointly funded under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, supports the repair, restoration and betterment of community infrastructure damaged in the 2022 floods.
Both federal member Kevin Hogan and state member Richie Williamson were on hand for the opening.
“The previous clubhouse suffered extensive damage during the devastating 2022 floods, so it was fantastic to see this important community facility rebuilt and back in use,” Mr Williamson said.
“Designed with flood resilience in mind, the new facility includes modern change rooms and amenities for players, officials, volunteers and spectators.”
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the investment would help locals stay connected and active.
“We’re also providing support to build in some upgrades so they can facilitate bigger and better events, as well as withstand disasters into the future,” she said.
NSW Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said the project reflected a commitment to building back better.
“This project is about building back better, delivering resilient, high-quality infrastructure that can withstand future weather events while serving locals for generations to come,” Minister Saffin said.
Richmond Valley Mayor Rob Mustow said the clubhouse would help the town continue its rugby league tradition.
“Casino has a long and proud history of producing exceptional rugby league players at NRL, State of Origin and national level, and the new clubhouse will ensure this tradition continues well into the future,” Mayor Mustow said.
“It is great to see this exciting new project which will help encourage and build our junior, women’s and men’s sides, as well as bring new events to the Richmond Valley.”
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