URGENT UPDATE: Lake Macquarie City Football Club has officially unveiled its newly renovated Macquarie Field, a project costing $2.7 million, aimed at elevating the club into the elite ranks of Northern NSW Football. The grand opening took place just moments ago, with the first match set for tomorrow, when the Roosters will face Newcastle Olympic in the Northern NSW Football National Premier League (NPL) women’s competition.
The extensive two-year renovation included demolishing the old grandstand from 1972 and replacing it with modern amenities. Key upgrades feature seating for 200 spectators, two changerooms, advanced lighting, restrooms, an accessible bathroom, and enhanced parking facilities. A critical $500,000 flood resilience grant from the NSW government allowed the field’s surface to be raised by 300 millimeters to prevent flooding issues caused by the nearby Cockle Creek.
Lake Macquarie City President Steve Graham expressed enthusiasm about the club’s future, stating,
“There is no compromise; we want to be the No.1 football environment here in the Northern NSW region, and investments like this help us on this way.”
With nearly 800 players registered, over half of whom are women, this upgrade is pivotal for expanding opportunities in women’s sports.
“It didn’t feel like we were whole,” Graham noted, emphasizing the importance of creating equal opportunities for male and female athletes. The club is focused on sustainable growth with ambitions to return to the men’s NPL by 2026.
The renovations at Macquarie Field follow the recent reopening of another premier soccer ground, Harold Knight Oval, which underwent a $5.3 million upgrade. This rapid development is unprecedented in the region, according to Peter Haynes, CEO of Northern NSW Football, who remarked,
“Opening two soccer-specific facilities in two days in the same council area is unheard of.”
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz reinforced the council’s commitment to upgrading community sporting facilities, stating that improving amenities for women’s sports is a priority. “Women’s sport is exploding… it’s important as a council to lean into that,” he said.
As excitement builds for tomorrow’s match, this renovation not only revitalizes a community hub but also signifies a broader commitment to inclusivity in sports.
Fans and players alike are encouraged to attend the opening game, marking a new era for Lake Macquarie City FC and its ambitions on the field. With substantial investments and a vision for the future, the Roosters are set to make a significant mark in Northern NSW Football.
