City of Newcastle has kicked off more than $2.5 million worth of upgrades at two Newcastle sports fields experiencing a significant increase in female participation across different codes.
Funded by City of Newcastle and the NSW Government’s Level the Playing Field Program, Tarro Reserve and Johnson Park at Lambton will each receive a new amenities building complete with female friendly change rooms, an accessible toilet, a canteen, a referees’ room and storage.
Chair of City of Newcastle’s Sports Infrastructure Working Party, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, said the upgrades will support the city’s growing population.
“These facilities are vital community assets that host a range of sports including football, cricket and touch football,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.
“Tarro Reserve and Johnson Park have seen female participation in cricket expand by more than 130% since 2024.
“The number of female footballers using Tarro Reserve has grown from 11 in 2024 to 144 this season, with those numbers expected to increase over the next few years.
“Female-friendly change rooms will support increased participation by women and girls, allowing them to train and compete in a safe and inclusive environment.
“The upgrades will also provide improved accessibility, ensuring we have more appropriate facilities for people of all ages and abilities.”
NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said sporting infrastructure needs to keep pace with the growth of women’s sport.
“Through the Level the Playing Field Fund, the Minns Labor Government is committed to removing barriers for women and girls in sport, so everyone can participate in an environment that makes them feel safe and supported,” Mr Kamper said.
“These projects ensure more equitable and inclusive access, so all members of the community feel comfortable taking part.”
The amenities at Johnson Park will complement improvements already completed by City of Newcastle including new LED floodlighting that meets modern standards for training and matches, along with drainage improvements.
City of Newcastle also completed the construction of a new playground at the southwest corner of Johnson Park in December.
The old playground at the intersection of Bindera and Wyong Roads will be demolished to make way for the new amenities building.
The existing toilets in the southeast corner of Johnson Park will be demolished when the new building is complete.
Construction at both fields is expected to be completed by early 2027.
This July will also see City of Newcastle upgrade facilities at Waratah Park with the installation of a new toilet block near the existing playground.
The work forms part of the Waratah Park Masterplan, which was endorsed by the Sports Infrastructure Working Party in 2025 following community consultation.
