Big win for Uki sport

THE Uki community has had a sporting win with the upgraded Vic Bianchetti Sports Ground and clubhouse officially opened by NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper.

Four metres of water inundated the building during the 2022 floods, devastating the facilities.

Local company Desire Contractors restored the clubhouse with flood resilient features, including a second level meeting room and storage area.

Mr Kamper said local sporting infrastructure played a critical role in keeping communities healthy, active and connected.

“This is more vital than ever in areas that have been through such adverse events,” he said.

“I look forward to seeing the benefits this new clubhouse brings to those returning to sport and those taking to the field well into the future.”

Uki Sport and Recreation Club president Duaine Bianchetti said the result exceeded the committee’s expectations.

“This facility will not only benefit our Uki sports clubs, but the entire Tweed community,” he said.

“We now have the capacity to hold and host events and functions of all types, from weddings to presentation nights and fundraisers. We are excited about how it’s turned out.”

The redesigned layout has produced a modern, fit-for-purpose sports clubhouse providing improved accessibility and functionality.

Council’s manager of parks and active communities Murray Smith said the project was a massive boost for Uki.

“Knowing that this clubhouse was completely underwater during the 2022 floods and seeing the transformation now is a credit to everyone involved,” he said.

“By incorporating improved flood resilience measures, this marks another positive step forward in the Tweed’s preparedness to handle future challenges of climate challenges.”

The $1.2 million clubhouse restoration and resilience project was funded through the NSW government’s Office of Sport under the Priority Needs Program and Essential Community Sport Assets programs.