Celebrating the opening of the new Bundarra Multipurpose Courts yesterday, community member Melissa Lowell, Bundarra Central School Year 6 student Jayden Groth, Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, Uralla Shire Mayor Michael Pearce and Bundarra Central School Year 6 student Kadi O’Grady.
Friday, 24 September 2021
THE sound of families playing sport and sausages sizzling on the barbecue has returned to Bundarra, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall yesterday joining Uralla Shire Mayor Michael Pearce and local community members to officially open the new $397,500 multipurpose courts on Souter Street.
The funding was provided to council last year through the State Government’s Drought Support program.
Mr Marshall said Bundarra was in desperate need of a youth space and the smiles on local children was evidence of a job well done.
“Since the drought, Bundarra has undergone a period of social and economic renewal, both on the land and in town,” Mr Marshall said.
“On purchasing the old tennis courts from the Church of England Diocese, council committed to developing a safe and central community space.
“I’m blown away with what has been delivered. The new courts include basketball and netball hoops, tennis court and handball markings, and a gym and table tennis area.
“Additionally the park has been set up as an unofficial ‘town green’ with new barbecue facilities, a shade shelter and seating.
“This is a project of real social importance to Bundarra. Through community consultation residents have been provided with a space to gather on the weekends, host community events and most importantly play sport.”
Mayor Michael Pearce said the Bundarra multipurpose courts project would boost the liveability of the Bundarra community.
“Located in the heart of town, the multipurpose courts have repurposed old disused tennis courts into a centralised facility that the whole community can enjoy,” Cr Pearce said.
“The benefit of such a facility for outdoor recreation, sport, exercise and social gatherings for people of all ages will improve their quality of life and result in a healthier, happier community.
“The community identified a need for more activities in town for teenagers and younger children, but council wanted to create a space that the whole community could with a beautiful outlook over the Gwydir River.
“Three workshops were held with students at the Bundarra Central School, and the students had the opportunity to help shape the masterplan.
“Consultations were held with the broader community as part of the community engagement and design processes.
“This end result is the outcome of a lot of valuable community input, Council’s strategic decision to purchase the old tennis courts a few years ago, and a generous grant from the State Government.”