Newcastle’s Sports Plan Revamped to Support Female Participation Boom

Newcastle’s Strategic Sports Plan is set for a major update to keep up with the rapid growth in women’s sport and the city’s increasing population. Adopted in December 2020, the 10-year plan was designed to manage future demand and guide the maintenance and development of sporting infrastructure. However, with 78 out of 93 recommendations already delivered and over $20 million invested in new and upgraded facilities, Newcastle is now pushing forward with a review to ensure facilities remain fit for purpose.

The announcement was made at the fourth annual Sports Summit, where more than 100 participants gathered to discuss the future of sport in the city. Executive Manager of Community and Recreation, Lynn Duffy, said Newcastle is committed to working closely with clubs and associations to ensure sporting venues cater to the growing number of players.

“We’re proud to work with local clubs and governing bodies to ensure facilities meet the needs of all players and the wider community,” Ms Duffy said. “This collaboration has already led to more inclusive, accessible, and female-friendly facilities, including upgrades at Myers Park and Lugar Park, as well as major grandstand redevelopments at Darling Street Oval and Passmore Oval worth almost $6 million.”

Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, Chair of the Sports Infrastructure Working Party, highlighted the increasing demand for high-quality facilities, particularly with Northern NSW Football setting a target of 30,000 female participants by 2026.

“They’ll all need somewhere to train and play,” Cr Winney-Baartz said. “The Strategic Sports Plan also covers 12 other field-based sports, including AFL, rugby league, netball, and cricket. With the Broadmeadow Place Strategy expected to bring an additional 40,000 residents to the area, we need to maximise the use of the 152 fields City of Newcastle manages.”

The review will also help Newcastle secure State and Federal funding for much-needed upgrades, including bathrooms, change rooms, and lighting, while also improving field layouts, drainage, and irrigation. City of Newcastle will seek expressions of interest for an independent consultant to lead the review in the next financial year.