Anthony Albanese, Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, today officially opened the Northparkes Oval upgrade in Parkes.

Minister Albanese said that the Rudd Labor Government had provided $112,000 towards the $156,000 project to complete the parking area and entrance to the oval and improve spectator and vehicular access.

“Over the last 12 years, the Parkes Shire Council has undertaken a $1.8 million redevelopment of Northparkes Oval,” said Mr Albanese.

“I am pleased to be here today with Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Ken Keith, to mark this major achievement.

“This multipurpose facility is used by the community for a range of sports including athletics, cricket and all football codes.

“The oval upgrade will help attract regional and state sporting fixtures to Parkes and also deliver first-class facilities for local residents and visitors.

“This project is a great example of the Rudd Government’s investment in local jobs today while delivering modern community infrastructure for the future.

“We have provided this funding through the more than $1 billion Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.

“This record funding has already supported more than 3,300 local infrastructure projects across Australia, creating jobs in local communities.”

Minister Albanese said that the next round of funding under the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program was now open, with $220 million available to local councils across Australia.

“Every local government area has received funding under the Program, including nearly $760,000 so far allocated to Parkes Shire Council.

“I congratulate the Parkes Shire Council for delivering local infrastructure projects that make a practical difference to the community,” Mr Albanese concluded.