Media Releases

Shelley Hancock – Minister for Local Government

Tuesday, 10 August 2021

Construction to revitalise Mark Taylor Oval for the state’s local and competitive cricketers has commenced, backed by NSW Government funding.

Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock has commended Hornsby Shire Council for work at Waitara Park.

“Hornsby Shire Council is working hard to have people back to playing cricket at Mark Taylor Oval as soon as possible, with new turf expected to be laid before summer,” Mrs Hancock said.

“The first stage will see the complete reconstruction of the playing surface which involves ground levelling, building drainage and irrigation systems, installing perimeter netting and making a new cricket pitch.”

The next phase will involve the construction of an Indoor Cricket Centre before the final stage brings life to a new state-of-the-art pavilion incorporating seating, universal change rooms, clubrooms for cricket and rugby, general community space and meeting rooms.

Minister for Sport Natalie Ward said the improved facilities at Mark Taylor Oval would inspire the next generation of cricketers, rugby players and sportspeople.

“This will be a place where people of all ages and abilities can enjoy what the revitalised ground has to offer,” Mrs Ward said.

“I am looking forward to seeing the community’s many local sporting groups and organisations take advantage of this exciting new project in their backyard.”

Member for Hornsby Matt Kean said that the local cricket community has a proud reputation and the revitalisation of Mark Taylor oval would help secure its future in the community.

“The NSW Government is committed to providing opportunities for high-quality infrastructure in our local communities, today and in years to come,” Mr Kean said.

“Improvements to Waitara Park support an increased participation in cricket by women and girls, as well as opening new pathways for local sporting talent with new facilities for coaching and training.”

In March 2019, the NSW Government stumped up $9 million to the partnership of Hornsby Shire Council and the Northern District Cricket Club to transform the oval at Waitara Park into a premier sporting destination.

Member for Ku-ring-gai Alister Henskens said Hornsby Shire Council in conjunction with the NSW Government is leading the way in providing increased open space for the local community.

“Nearby residents will be able to access the park when the ground is not being used for sports, providing even more recreational space for the people of Waitara and surrounds to keep active,” Mr Henskens.

“While the works are taking place, I encourage the community to access nearby James Park in Lowe Road whose lights will be switched on by Council for exercise in the evenings from 5pm until 8pm.

“The upgrade to Mark Taylor Oval will also support regional cricketers to compete at the top club level from all over Sydney, the Central Coast and the Hunter, which is an outstanding outcome for the state’s aspiring young sportspeople.”

For the latest news, visit www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/council/noticeboard/works/major-projects/waitara-park.

MEDIA: Caterina Polistina | Minister Hancock | 0439 1396 539
Nina Stevens | Minister Ward | 0412 438 647