Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor officially switched on the new Picton Sportsground floodlights for the SouthWest Oztag finals.

“There’s now a brighter outlook for Oztag and regional sport – quite literally,” Mr Taylor said.

Together with State Member for Wollondilly Jai Rowell and Wollondilly Shire Mayor Col Mitchell, Mr Taylor unveiled a commemorative plaque last Tuesday evening (10 March), acknowledging the Federal contribution to the lights.

“Under the Federal Government’s Community Development Grants Programme, Wollondilly Shire Council received $250,000 to purchase and install the floodlights. Council contributed $41,000 to the project.

“Federal funding has paid for installation of four light towers, trenching, conduit and cabling to illuminate the playing fields and mini sports fields. This is a great contribution to Picton sport, especially kids’ sport. Local Oztag, soccer and cricket clubs will all benefit,” he said.

Mr Taylor encouraged councils seeking support for similar community infrastructure projects, to apply to the National Stronger Regions Fund, which would deliver $1 billion in grants over five years. Round Two will open on 1 May 2015.

Under Lights: From left to right (front):  Robert Szoszkiewciz, Facilities and Recreation Team Leader Wollondilly Shire Council (WSC), Luke Johnson, General Manager (WSC), Jai Rowell MP, Member for Wollondilly, Angus Taylor MP, Member for Hume, Cr Col Mitchell, Mayor (WSC) with SouthWest OzTag players at Picton Sportsground.