Let there be lights

NEW energy-efficient lighting will illuminate the Bangalow sports fields, officially announced last week by NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Disaster Recovery and Lismore MP Janelle Saffin.

Saffin said the NSW Government proudly supported the project, which would benefit more than a dozen local user groups well into the future.

“Our investment in new, more energy-efficient lighting will enhance visibility and safety for participants in nighttime training and sporting events, and for other community gatherings,” Saffin said.

“The Sports Infrastructure Recovery Fund, under which this lighting replacement and upgrade was administered, was designed to upgrade sports facilities to be more resilient to future extreme climate events and natural disasters.

“I congratulate new Byron Shire mayor Cr Sarah Ndiaye and her council on delivering sports infrastructure that keeps local residents healthy, active and connected,” she said.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye joined Saffin at the fields in inspecting the new light poles, designed to reduce light spill and reduce the facility’s energy bills by $35,000 annually.

Mayor Ndiaye said the sports fields had a special place in the hearts of many Bangalow residents.

“I know these new lights will be much appreciated by sporting clubs, players and the loads of people who line the sidelines to watch,” she said.

“Improved lighting for evening activities was identified as a key priority in the feedback we received when we did the Bangalow Sports Fields Masterplan several years ago, so it’s great that we have been able to deliver this project.”.

State Member for Ballina Tamara Smith said the facilities brought together hundreds of locals of all ages and abilities for training, competition, and connection.

“This lighting upgrade will help keep our clubs, like the Bangalow Blue Dogs Football, Bangalow Rebels Rugby, and the Cricket Club, active and thriving well into the evening, supporting a vibrant and healthy community.

“I’m thrilled to see this investment that not only enhances the safety and enjoyment for participants, families and supporters but also reduces energy use and costs,” she said.

The $795,000 upgrade was funded by the NSW Government’s Essential Community Sports Assets program, helping to provide modern, flood-resilient infrastructure to local sports facilities.