RELEASE FROM NSW GOVERNMENT
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro and Member for Lismore Thomas George today announced $4.95 million in NSW Government funding to upgrade the Albert Park Baseball Complex in Lismore.
The NSW Government funding for the Albert Park Baseball Project will be used to enhance the current playing and spectating facilities, thereby attracting regional, national and international baseball events to NSW.
Mr Barilaro said he was proud to announce that Lismore would soon be able to deliver major league games.
“Today’s announcement is a huge win for regional NSW, and cements Lismore’s position as the home of baseball in Australia,” Mr Barilaro said.
“The funding means Lismore will have the very best baseball facilities in the country, capable of drawing more major baseball events and tournaments to the regional town.
“With more high-profile baseball events coming to Lismore, the region will enjoy a significant boost to the local tourism sector and economy.
“I’d particularly like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of Local Member Thomas George, who, along with the local council, has fought hard to make this happen for Lismore and the wider region,” he said.
The $4.95 million in NSW Government funding is part of the $1.3 billion Regional Growth Fund announced in last year’s Budget.
Upgrades to Albert Park will include playing field extensions, improved turf quality, electronic scoreboard and fencing, a ‘central facilities hub’ with landscaped garden areas, picnic tables and park shelters and an ‘operations centre’ which will facilitate up to 64 athletes and locker space, shower and toilet facilities and team meeting rooms.
Following facility upgrades, Baseball Australia will have three to six full-time staff working at Albert Park and 10-14 part-time or contracted staff working during games and events.
Mr George said that Lismore will soon be the most significant destination to host Australian Baseball.
“This funding boost for Albert Park is a great outcome for Lismore and the surrounding regions,” Mr George said.
“It will drive tourism, economic growth and deliver incredible entertainment through baseball and softball tournaments in this electorate,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer of Baseball Australia Cam Vale said he was thrilled with the support from the NSW Government.
“Lismore is home to some of our most important domestic tournaments,” Mr Vale said.
“This show of support from the NSW Government, Lismore Council and Lismore Baseball community is a testament to the current state of baseball in this country, and we are excited to further develop our great sport in this region.
“We’ve seen substantial events grace Albert Park in recent years, including an annual Major League Baseball camp, and this announcement further cements Baseball Australia’s commitment to hosting future events in Lismore as well as exploring the possibility of a future ABL team in the city and region,” he said.