A new junior cricket oval at Lawrence is a step closer following a $20,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program, Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson has announced.
The funding will support the Lawrence Cricket Club’s project to develop a dedicated junior cricket oval in partnership with the Lawrence Golf & Sporting Club, with the aim of establishing a long-term sporting precinct for the local community.
Williamson said the project demonstrated the value of collaboration between local organisations, volunteers and businesses in delivering grassroots sporting infrastructure.
“This is a wonderful project for Lawrence and a fantastic investment in the future of junior sport in the region,” Williamson said.
“The new junior cricket oval will provide local children and families with improved playing facilities while helping grow participation in cricket across the community.
“The project also lays the groundwork for future development of a complete sporting precinct, including a senior turf wicket oval and training facilities.”
Williamson said community sport played an important role in regional towns by bringing people together and providing opportunities for young people to remain active and connected.
“It’s terrific to see such strong community support behind this project, with local volunteers, businesses and sporting organisations all contributing to help make it happen,” he said.
The project has also received a $10,000 contribution from the Lawrence Golf & Sporting Club, as well as significant in-kind support from local businesses and volunteers.
Lawrence Golf & Sporting Club president Trevor Simpson said the project would deliver lasting benefits for the community.
“This project is a fantastic outcome for the entire Lawrence community,” Simpson said.
“The partnership between the Golf Club and Cricket Club has shown what can be achieved when local organisations work together towards a common goal.
“We are proud to support a facility that will benefit local families, junior sport and the wider community for many years to come.”
Simpson thanked Greensill Bros and Lucas Civil for their support through the donation of machinery and labour, as well as the many volunteers who had contributed significant time to the project.
Once completed, the facility will support junior cricket participation and development, school and community sporting programs, growth in female cricket, representative cricket opportunities, and improved training and playing conditions.
The junior oval is expected to be completed and officially opened for community use in February 2027.
Williamson congratulated the Lawrence Cricket Club, Lawrence Golf & Sporting Club and volunteers involved in the project.
“This project demonstrates the power of community partnerships and the enormous value volunteers bring to regional sport,” he said.
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