Match ready: new amenities open at one of Maitland’s premier sporting venues

Sporting groups and athletes in East Maitland will be more match ready than ever next season, with a brand-new amenities building officially open at Cooks Square Park.

Jointly funded by the NSW and Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, the $1.15 million investment has seen the construction of more modern, gender inclusive and accessible male and female changerooms.

As part of the project, drainage works have also been completed to improve operations at the facility.

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold says the new amenities are “a major improvement that cater to all levels and abilities and will benefit local clubs like Maitland FC, now and into the future.”

“We’re proud to deliver improvements like these to support Maitland’s growing football community, so our athletes have the facilities they need to play at their best,” Mayor Penfold said. 

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said “The NSW Government is pleased to support upgrades that make our regional sporting facilities more accessible to players of all ages, genders and abilities.”

“Local sporting facilities are so central to our regional communities for fostering healthy habits and bringing people together to enjoy connection with one another.”

The new changerooms will also support the continued growth of female participation in sport, providing female athletes with a safe and private space to prepare for games.

“I’m proud to be part of an Albanese Labor Government that is delivering key local improvements like these new amenities at Cooks Square Park. This project was a Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program commitment of $595,878, and I’m so pleased to see it now come to life – supporting our local clubs, encouraging participation in sport, and strengthening our community,” Federal Member for Paterson, Meryl Swanson said.

“This investment is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about building a future where everyone, especially women and girls, feel welcome and supported in sport.”

Maitland City Council acknowledges the extended time it has taken to complete this project and would like to thank Maitland FC and the wider community for their patience.

For more on recent upgrades to Cooks Square Park, visit mait.city/CooksSquarePark