New netball facilities opened in Tweed Heads South ahead of season start

TWEED Shire Council and state and federal government representatives unveiled the upgraded Arkinstall Park netball complex in Tweed Heads South last week.

Providing essential facilities for the netball community, the new $825,000 amenities building was completed in time for the 2025 netball season and includes change rooms, toilets, storage facilities, and an umpire and first aid room.

The complex serves as a hub for netball in the Tweed Shire and surrounding areas, supporting the Tweed Netball Association and nine affiliated clubs.

The NSW Minister for Sport, Steve Kamper, said the NSW Government was committed to increasing the number of safe, equitable, accessible and inclusive sports facilities across the state.

“All members of our community should have the opportunity to participate in sports in an environment that makes them feel supported and comfortable to do so,” Kamper said.

Tweed Netball representatives with Council representatives Murray Smith and Joanna Hogg and longtime netball supporters Warren Polglase and Karlene Polglase at the official opening event. Photo: SUPPLIED

“Greater equality in sport and recreation benefits everyone, and I look forward to seeing how these facilities support increased participation from the grassroots and beyond.”

Arkinstall Park has undergone several upgrades to the sporting hub in the last 12 months. Northern Rivers Baseball Club will bring the shire’s first-ever baseball diamond and training field, making the sport accessible to Tweed for the first time.

Soccer fans can now benefit from new energy-efficient LED lighting installed on three fields with an automated control system.

The previous netball facility did not provide for the needs of the growing association, its member clubs, players, coaches, volunteers, and spectators.

Member for Richmond Justine Elliot, Emily Suvaal MLC and Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry with members of Tweed Netball. Photo: SUPPLIED

The Mayor of Tweed Shire, Chris Cherry, said it was exciting to see the new netball amenities open in time for the 2025 season.

“This new amenities building will enhance the experience for players, coaches, and spectators alike,” Cr Cherry said.

“The upgrade addresses the growing demand for modern, female-friendly facilities, significantly enhancing safety, privacy, and comfort for female athletes, which is crucial for increasing participation in sport.”

The NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Round and Female Friendly Community Sport Facilities and Lighting upgrades funded the project in partnership with Tweed Shire Council.