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Female footballers will have access to more inclusive facilities as part of City of Newcastle’s $1.2 million upgrade of Lugar Park.

The project, funded by City of Newcastle, the NSW Government and the Kotara South Football Club, has transformed the Kotara sportsground into an inclusive and fully accessible football facility for referees, community spectators, and home and away players alike.

The existing amenities building was extended to create a welcoming and accessible space for male and female players and officials, with the addition of a second unisex changeroom, accessible amenities and a unisex referees’ room.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the project has transformed the existing infrastructure into a fit-for-purpose football facility that supports the region’s growing female participation and the needs of all community members.

Lord Mayor Nelmes notes “City of Newcastle is committed to investing in inclusive facilities to ensure players and referees have access to environments that enable, facilitate and retain participation by females, both at a grassroots and senior level.

“With the FIFA Women’s World Cup being hosted on home soil, participation by women and girls will only continue to grow, which is why it is vital we deliver projects such as Lugar Park, which provide enjoyable spaces that allow women and girls to feel connected and welcome in their chosen sport.”

Equipment storage and a new canteen completed the building upgrade, while upgraded pathways from the carpark to the grounds, and an all-weather covered area for spectators have provided a more comfortable and accessible environment for all members of the community.

Kotara South Football Club President Bryn Hoskins said the club strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for females, juniors and people with diverse abilities.

Hoskins shared “around one third of our members are female and participation is growing. With contemporary female-friendly changerooms and toilets, a new kiosk and disability access, these new facilities will help grow our sport by providing a positive experience for both male and female players, referees, coaches, volunteers and spectators.

“The facility will be highly used by Kotara South Football Club as well as local cricket and other sporting groups. We thank City of Newcastle for its professional oversight and management of this quality construction. Kotara South Football Club is excited to officially open the upgraded amenities building at Lugar Park.”

Image. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Member for Charlestown and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison MP, Kotara South Football Club President Bryn Hoskins, Councillor Carol Duncan, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz and the Kotara South Football Club under-13s team celebrate the official opening of the upgraded facilities at Lugar Park, Kotara. Credit: City of Newcastle

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