Work is set to begin on a new $7 million water-based world-class hockey field in Goulburn.
The project has been given the green light after the NSW Government agreed to contribute $3,872,000 from its Restart NSW Fund.
The Goulburn District Hockey Association will also contribute $200,000 and Goulburn Mulwaree Council will fund the remaining $3,009,000.
Water-based hockey fields are considered one of the best playing surfaces for hockey as they not only reduce friction allowing for quicker and smoother play, but they also reduce the risk of injury.
The funds will be used to replace one of the existing hockey fields with the water-based hockey field, the installation of new field lights and improvements to the player and public amenities at the Goulburn Hockey Complex.
Council purchased the complex from the Goulburn Workers Club in 2020 and will rename the complex to Goulburn Regional Hockey Centre.
The total upgraded facility will make Goulburn one of the most sought-after venues for hockey in NSW, according to Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Bob Kirk.
“Council has been delighted to work closely with the Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman, the State Government and Goulburn District Hockey Association to make this hockey venue happen,” Cr Kirk said.
“The Goulburn region hockey community, including Crookwell, deserve these high-class facilities and once we have completed the upgrade, we will look forward to welcoming some of the best teams in Australia to Goulburn.
“Couple this with the great indoor venue at the Veolia Arena, Goulburn will be renowned for hosting national hockey events at these great facilities.”
Mrs Tuckerman said the region has a proud and rich history of professional and social participation in the sport, and this investment would allow players to develop and the participation to grow.