BELLINGEN’S Connell Park Sporting Precinct reopened with a flourish on 11 April, after unexpected delays to its refurbishment over the past 18 months.
Bellingen Shire Council, the Connell Park Sporting Committee, and Community Aquatics, hosted a fun day at the park, with a free sausage sizzle, entry to the Bellingen pool, bouncing castles, face painting and a host of sports.
Soccer, ultimate frisbee, archery, rugby league and netball all featured on the program.
The park’s refurbishments include new playing surfaces and two new pavilions and a toilet block – complementing the adjacent netball courts, which were upgraded in 2023.
Oxley MP Michael Kemp and Bellingen Shire Mayor Steve Allan were also in attendance, meeting with volunteers and viewing the new facilities.
The Bellingen Football Club (BFC) was out playing friendly games, with official matches for the Senior Women’s competition kicking off at 1pm.
BFC President Brian Levine was very pleased with the park and said the club had recently complemented the quality of the field with new sporting and canteen equipment, thanks to a NSW Government grant.
Volunteering and community support is a crucial part of the club’s ongoing success, with the need to coordinate games for over 350 players, along with administration, operations, coaching, and mentoring.
“We would like to acknowledge the previous committee and Bellingen Council for all the hard work they’ve done in getting grants, and to get it to this stage,” he said.
“Last year was a challenge without our own field, and we had to reach out to the community to help us get by.
“City of Coffs Harbour Council was very generous in allowing us to use their synthetic fields.”
Club stalwart Phil Lynch was awarded a lifetime membership, and while his full-time coaching days are behind him, he still volunteers his time every week, mentoring others and helping onsite.
Ultimate Frisbee Bellingen Coordinator Ben Lewis runs free matches on Tuesday afternoons at the Bellingen High School oval.
He said everyone is welcome to try the game.
“There’s no special equipment or prior experience needed.
“Kids up to seniors are welcome, it’s very low pressure.
“We have a great core team now but always love welcoming new players.”
By Jessica MILLE
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