AFL eyes Oakes Oval as future sports hub

OAKES Oval has been named NSW’s top community AFL facility and is now a finalist for a national award, positioning it as a potential future hub for the sport.

As the state’s winner in the Ken Gannon AFL Community Football Facility Award, the venue is now in contention for the national title, which recognises best practices in community football development across Australia.

Lismore hosted a preseason AFL game between the Gold Coast Suns and Sydney Swans in 2019, and the venue has since undergone a $12.4 million upgrade.

AFL venue and government partnerships manager for NSW Samuel Thomson said the recognition will help boost opportunities for Oakes Oval and Lismore.

“Now one of the premier AFL venues in all of NSW, we look forward to Oakes Oval becoming the centrepiece of the continued growth of our game across Northern NSW,” he said.

The redevelopment included upgrades to the grandstand with new seating, improved media and coaches’ boxes, and a complete refurbishment of the Gordon Pavilion, which now features a function room, bar, and kitchen.

The change rooms, amenities, and storage areas were also upgraded to meet modern standards, ensuring a top-quality experience for players and spectators alike.

Lismore City Council manager for liveable and active communities Tony Duffy said the award recognises the facility’s thoughtful design and planning.

“We don’t just have regional facility that can host sports at all levels; we have a facility that now has become a multipurpose stadium for Lismore and Northern NSW,” he said.

“We look forward to the AFL bringing further local to elite content over the coming years.”

In addition to its AFL potential, Oakes Oval has also become home to local cricket legends.

The Adam Gilchrist Pavilion was opened last week with a Legends of Cricket game at the venue.

The multi-purpose venue includes a function room, commercial kitchen, office space, amenities, and a viewing deck overlooking both Oakes Oval and Crozier Field.

With an internal seating capacity of 100 people, the pavilion offers a flexible space that can be divided into three separate areas for meetings and private functions.

It has air conditioning, Wi-Fi, accessible toilets, a lift, and a fully equipped kitchen and bar.

“It’s an incredible honour to have a pavilion named after you,” Gilchrist said.

“Growing up in Lismore, I never imagined this day would come, and honestly, it’s a little overwhelming. I hope it serves as a reminder of the community that supported me and how much this place means to me.”

“Lismore played such a huge role in my journey and will forever be part of my DNA.”