The Margaret River Hockey Club will soon install a new synthetic turf half-pitch with lighting, thanks to a $334,289 contribution from the State Government.
The half-pitch is to be located at Gloucester Park, the premier sporting precinct in Margaret River, adjacent to the town’s bowling club. The total cost of the project is $1,002,869.
The State Government is to provide a third of the funding through the Community Sporting and Recreation Facilities Fund (CSRFF).
The balance of funding for the half-pitch will be provided by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River ($293,500), the Margaret River Hockey Club ($175,000) and the Federal Government ($200,000).
The Margaret River Hockey Club has more than 150 members who currently have to train and play in Busselton, which is a 90-minute round trip. The club will continue to play all games in Busselton.
The Shire and club have also committed to creating a sinking fund to enable the replacement of the synthetic turf in the future.
This year, the State Government will provide a total of $12 million in CSRFF funding to community groups and local governments across Western Australia to help develop better sport and recreation facilities.
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister Mick Murray:
“This is a much-needed facility for the Augusta-Margaret River area, and I expect it will be well used and appreciated.
“This new training half-pitch will give players a modern facility, much easier access and more time to develop their skills, as well as being able to practise after hours.
“Both the Shire and club are also to be commended for committing to a sinking fund for future works at the facility.”
