Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall inspecting the handy work of the team of volunteers installing an underground watering system at the Alcatraz ruby field. Pictured from left are Tim Wheaton, Phillip Foley, Michael Lush, Josh Dunne, Adam Marshall, Sam Piddington and Bill Hyde.
TWELVE months after receiving a $25,000 grant from the NSW Government, members of Armidale’s Barbarian Rugby Club last week raised their glasses to christen their newly installed underground watering system at their home ground, Alcatraz.
Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall inspected the club’s handy work and congratulated the team of volunteers, who used their collective skills, to install the hundreds of metres of underground piping.
“It’s certainly been a big team effort,” Mr Marshall said. “The NSW Sport and Recreation grant the club received last year covered the cost of material so they have relied heavily on volunteer labour.
“Armidale’s Hubbard Hire was very generous and gave the club use of a few bobcats and diggers last week so there was no holding them back.
The irrigation system will make a big difference to the club, their players and visitors, ensuring the paddock is well watered throughout the rugby season.
Mr Marshall said he was pleased to help the club secure the funding last year and delighted the job was now done.
“It’s a real pleasure to be invited back to see the end result and how beneficial these grants are to our grassroots sporting clubs,” he said.
“The rugby field is all part of a crown reserve and its important the state government continue to assist small community groups maintain their facilities.
“The Sport and Recreation Facility Program was the perfect fit for this upgrade and I commend the club on their proactive approach to improving their facilities.”