PORT Stephens Council has endorsed the new masterplan for the Tomaree Sports Complex, which was revised after community feedback.
The original plan was adopted in 2018.
Since then, several of its components have been delivered, including the $3.2m Bruce Scott Pavilion for sports and youth services.
The masterplan, revised in 2025 and strongly supported by the community, will now be delivered.
This is largely due to $25,000 in funding provided by the Tomaree Sports Council.
“A couple of highlights are the increased parking and the indoor stadium facility,” explained Cr Mark Watson.
“These are just a couple of things that will improve the overall experience for those who use these facilities.”
The new indoor stadium, in particular, will support further bids from the Tomaree sporting community to host regional and national events, providing new business and recreational opportunities.
Mayor Leah Anderson said, “Our endorsement of this revised masterplan is another major step in securing additional funding streams to realise our community’s vision for a flagship sporting hub in Port Stephens.
“This complex plays an essential role in keeping our community connected, active, and healthy.”
Cr Roz Armstrong added, “This is a great step forward because it ensures we can provide the sporting facilities needed to meet our local needs now and into the future”.
During the submission period, many residents requested that the indoor facility be designed in such a way to meet requirements for a range of different sports, such as squash, basketball, football and rugby.
Council confirmed that these requirements will be considered during future detailed design phases, while also reassuring residents that the state of the older Salamander Bay Sports Complex will be addressed in the future.
“The project will help attract world-class teams to train here in the leadup to major events in Australia, which will be a fantastic outcome for our region,” said Cr Nathan Errington.
By Nico LOMBARDO
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