YEAR IN REVIEW 2016/17 CONTENTS

Chairman’s Message 02 CEO’s Message 03 Blacktown Venue Management Ltd Board 04 Blacktown Venue Management Ltd Board of Directors 05 Blacktown Key Venues 06 Blacktown Key Venues Management Staff 08 Health and Safety 09 Vale Emeritus Mayor Charlie Lowles OAM 10 Vale Councillor Leo Kelly OAM 11 Blacktown Football Park 12 Home is where the Park is 14 Well played Jack Taylor 16 Blacktown International Sportspark 18 Kicking goals for diversity 20 Athletics 22 Community events 26 Play ball! 28 Cricket 30 International Goalkeepers Academy 32 Rugby League 34 Softball 36 Western Sydney Wanderers Football Club 38 Joe McAleer Reserve 40 Blacktown Aquatic Centre 42 Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope 44 Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope 46 Emerton Leisure Centre 48 Mount Druitt Pool 50 Riverstone Swimming Centre 52 Aqua Learn to Swim 54 Looking Forward 56

02 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 01 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE CEO’S MESSAGE As Chairman of Blacktown Venue Key Venues goals are clear: deliver Thank you to the Key Venues What another incredible year it Our leisure and aquatic facilities I would like to personally thank the Management and on behalf of first class activity and program choice, management team for an outstanding has been for the Blacktown Venue had an exceptional year as well Chairman, Deputy Chairman and the Blacktown Venue Management promote Blacktown City as the leader year marked by many milestones Management team! with Emerton Leisure Centre Blacktown Venue Management Board of Directors it gives me great in sport, recreation and leisure and and achievements. I look forward to winning 2017 Australian Aquatic Directors for their guidance over pleasure to welcome you to the gives every visitor and customer a working with you and our outstanding Blacktown International Sportspark and Recreation Facility of the the past 12 months and look 2016/17 Key Venues Year in Review. safe and memorable experience. staff across all venues to make the Sydney hosted over 12 international Year. Blacktown Tennis Centre forward to the year ahead. next 12 months even better! teams. Including the Rugby League Stanhope celebrated their first year Blacktown City is a sporting city and The Blacktown Venue Management Tonga Side, the Doosan Bears of operation, and Blacktown Aquatic Council’s commitment to providing Board and I are proud of what Korean Professional Baseball Team Centre finished refurbishments in opportunities across all levels of we have created in just 2 years of for their second consecutive spring late 2017. sport and recreation is clearly operation. The masterplan review training camp, the Bangladesh demonstrated by the formation of and plans to bring an International National Cricket team and Riverstone Swimming Centre Blacktown Key Venues last year. Centre of Training Excellence Stephen Bali the Red Terriers Professional unveiled their new play space. Kevin Jones to Blacktown is well underway. Chairman Japanese Softball side. Mount Druitt Pool had another Chief Executive Officer Blacktown Key Venues oversees Blacktown will continue to be the Blacktown Venue Management Ltd successful season. Blacktown Venue Management Ltd 10 major sports and leisure facilities benchmark of sport and leisure Joe McAleer Oval, and curator across the City: Blacktown Football in Western Sydney. Kieran Meurant won Cricket The new Aqua Learn to Swim Park, Blacktown International NSW best facility in the State. program has brought consistency Sportspark Sydney, Joe McAleer As a Board we are proud to be The Sportspark hosted home games in programming to our venues and oval, Blacktown Tennis Centre part of overseeing services that are for both the inaugural AFL Women’s has proven a great success with Stanhope and the cities 5 leisure and an integral part of the community. Competition GWS Giants and the over 7,500 students enrolled in the aquatic facilities: Blacktown Aquatic I would like to thank the Board for T20 Women’s . program that is offered across all Centre, Blacktown Leisure Centre their dedication, commitment and 5 of our aquatic and leisure facilities. Stanhope, Emerton Leisure Centre, service over the past 12 months. Softball NSW celebrated 70 years Sharon Faulkner won Austswim Mount Druitt Pool and Riverstone and hosted the 70th Gilley’s Shield NSW’s “Best teacher for adults”. Swimming Centre. I also gratefully acknowledge Open Women’s Softball Competition. the ongoing support of Blacktown Key Venues’ facilities delivered City Council, its Councillors and sport, recreation, leisure and fitness its officers. outcomes to over 1 million visitors across the City’s 10 major sport and leisure facilities. Both our facilities and team received several accolades throughout the year.

02 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 03 BLACKTOWN BLACKTOWN VENUE VENUE MANAGEMENT LTD MANAGEMENT LTD BOARD BOARD OF DIRECTORS Blacktown Venue Management Ltd is a company wholly owned by Blacktown City Council managing Council’s Key Venues portfolio as a valuable asset for the Community.

BLACKTOWN VENUE BLACKTOWN VENUE Our efforts are underpinned by people who are committed MANAGEMENT VALUES MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES to the highest standards of • Integrity • To maintain, manage, operate and professionalism and integrity Cr Stephen Bali Kerry Robinson Cr Tony Bleasdale OAM promote any venues and facilities and deliver professional and Chairman Deputy Chairman Director • Leadership identified as ‘Key Venues’ as quality services to the community. September 2014 – Present 2013 – Present Director 2011 – Present quality local, regional, national and • Selflessness international standard facilities as • Impartiality applicable and servicing all levels of sport, recreation and leisure • Accountability • To maximise local community participation in the sporting, • Openness recreation and economic • Honesty opportunities provided by Council’s Key Venues • To develop, enhance, utilise, maintain, operate and promote Key Cr Susai Benjamin Cr Brad Bunting Christine Deaner Venues facilities and infrastructure Director Director Director in such a manner as to enhance 2016-present 2017 – present 2016 – Present user satisfaction, community involvement and the standing of the Blacktown community • To promote the City of Blacktown through the operation and the use of Key Venues • To conduct its activities to provide long-term social and economic for the City of Blacktown Dr Jim Taggart Daryll Clout Cr Leo Kelly OAM Director Director Director 2016 – present 2016 – present 2016 – 2017

Blacktown Venue Management Ltd Chairman

2014 – Current Cr Stephen Bali 2009 – 2011 Cr Charlie Lowles OAM

2012 – 2014 Cr Len Robinson 2004 – 2009 Cr Leo Kelly OAM

2011 – 2012 Cr Alan Pendleton OAM 2002 – 2004 Cr Alan Pendleton OAM

04 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 05 Vineyard

R I V E R S T Rouse TO S N A E E WINDSOR RD Hill

P D R D 1 D BLACKTOWN E L E FI R A G Riverstone R A KEY VENUES IL T S W E A W Y D Following a Council restructure Blacktown’s first grade cricket and D T S R R C ELD D E OFI in December 2014 Blacktown premier league football teams utilise IEL CH H F S A R A M G Venue Management Ltd assumed the facilities of Joe McAleer Oval :JOVÄLSKZ B L The

E oversight of Blacktown City Council and Blacktown Football Park along D Stanhope O Ponds aquatic and leisure centres, 1 oval with Anne Aquilina Reserve which N

R Gardens and 16 Tennis Courts in addition to is a hub for a variety of grassroots Marsden D S WY TAN E PK BURDEKIN RD H OP OLD WINDSOR RD managing Blacktown International and school sporting activities. ST Park

O

Sportspark Sydney. N E 8 10

Y

Key Venues Goals

C R BLACKTOWN Parklea Key Venues brings together 10 of E Q E Y • Deliver first class activity and U PKW K AKERS HILL Blacktown City’s premier sport Quakers program choice R D Hill Glenwood and leisure facilities. MEURANTS LN • Promote Blacktown City as WESTLINK M7 Q U JAMES The venues themselves are the leader in sport, recreation A Kings Park CO P K OK AL RD E R M D RS D diverse ranging from Council’s and leisure Y R R R FO D Kings Ropes A UX flagship sports facility Blacktown A L

• Provide every visitor and customer Crossing V RICHMONDMarayong RD Langley

D D

D

International Sportspark Sydney D R

Glendenning R

a safe and memorable experience

R

T T

L L L

L Lalor to the award winning leisure and S

RD I N U

U EY O ERS O

St Marys J 4 V O H

X H

2 A R Park Y aquatic centres in Blacktown Aquatic F Y T

D H D N O N C OTT R

R LYTON ST N

Centre, Blacktown Leisure Centre D POWER ST Woodcroft N U

R U S Emerton S CUS RD

Stanhope and Emerton Leisure D LU ABBOTT RD

ROOTY HILL RDRDROOTYROOTY HILL HILL Centre. Rounding up the aquatics WOODSTOCK AVE Doonside facilities are the City’s 2 seasonal KNOXRD 9 KILDARE RD swimming pools, Mount Druitt and 3 Rooty BLACKTOWN Riverstone. Blacktown Tennis Centre Hill 5 Seven 7 Hills Stanhope also completed its first BUNGARRIBEE RD D R

R R I

year of operation. 6 I O Arndell O Mount V LANCELOT R

E Toongabbie

Park T

S ST

Druitt C E E

CARLISLEAVE

E

R R

Y

GREAT WESTERN HWY P

DOONSIDE RD DOONSIDE DOONSIDE RD DOONSIDE Girraween

W

S

H

O FLUSHCOMBE RD RD FLUSHCOMBE FLUSHCOMBE

R

Minchinbury P To Blue OTORWAY M4 Huntingwood Mountains M To Sydney

FERRERS RD

WALLGROVE RD WESTLINK M7 CBD Prospect Eastern LEGEND Creek KEY VENUES 1. Riverstone Swimming Centre 2. Emerton Leisure Centre 3. Mount Druitt Pool 4. Joe McAleer Oval 5. Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney 6. Blacktown Football Park 7. Anne Aquilina Reserve 8. Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope 9. Blacktown Aquatic Centre 10. Blacktown Tennis Centre Stanhope

06 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 07 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES MANAGEMENT STAFF HEALTH AND SAFETY Blacktown Venue Management • Providing health and safety Australia and operate within the Ltd is committed to Work Health information, instruction, training Guidelines for Safe Pool operation. and Safety (WHS) and follows and supervision to workers, Blacktown City Council’s Work contractors/sub-contractors and Blacktown Aquatic Centre, Health and Safety Policy (POL 100) their workers, volunteers and Emerton Leisure Centre and as best practice. other persons Blacktown Leisure Centre Stanhope, Mount Druitt Pool and This policy recognises due diligence • Consulting with workers, Riverstone Swimming Centre must apply in managing work health contractors, sub-contractors, have all received a 5 Star Water Kevin Jones and safety by providing a safe and volunteers, labour hire workers Safety Partner accreditation from Chief Executive Officer healthy workplace for all workers and others persons on work Royal Life Saving demonstrating and other persons. health and safety issues the facilities’ commitment to aquatic and performance safety standards. This is a result Blacktown Venue Management • Providing support and resources of independent audit that reviews Ltd in-line with Council policy is to managers and workers to help procedures and facility features. committed to: them fulfil their legal work health • Reducing the frequency of lost and safety duties Our ongoing commitment to water time incidents safety and education is further • Disseminating information to all demonstrated through the promotion • Ensuring compliance with workers, contractors and their of Royal Life Saving’s ‘Keep Watch @ legislative requirements and workers, sub-contractors and Public Pools’ initiative. This initiative current industry standards their workers, labour hire workers, has key messages for parents on relating to WHS volunteers and other persons how they need to supervise their Matt Cairns Nichole Edsall Shannon Queree Sean Christie • Providing and maintaining safe • Ensuring hazards in the work children in an aquatic environment Grounds and Chief Operations Acting Chief Business and structures, fixtures, fitting, plant, environment are identified, and tips for lifeguards on how to Operations Manager Operations Projects Manager substances, systems of work, assessed and controlled assist with supervision. Coordinator Manager healthy work environment, • Monitoring the health of workers Emerton Leisure Centre received a adequate welfare facilities and and the conditions at the access to those facilities score of 97.75% in the Safe Work workplace to prevent illness or NSW Audit – the highest ever result • Providing for safe use, handling injury of workers by Blacktown City Council. and storage of plant, structures • Providing Injury Management and substances Blacktown Venue Management • Providing and maintaining written In addition to WHS policy, all Key successfully rolled out defibrillators procedures and instructions Venues leisure and aquatic facilities across all its sporting facilities within work closely with Royal Life Saving Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney in 2017. Kathyrn Rieksen Kirsty Vassallo Ros Pullen Brett Andrews Aquatic and Leisure Company Marketing and Centre Manager Centre Coordinator Administration Officer Communications Blacktown Leisure Coordinator Centre Stanhope

Lachlan Lawless Malcolm Toovey Veronica Steer Sarah Turner Centre Coordinator Centre Coordinator Key Venues Key Venues Emerton Leisure Blacktown Aquatic Communications and Communications and Centre Centre Events Officer Events Officer

08 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 09 BLACKTOWN FOOTBALL PARK Local football’s finest are here to play A wonderful place to play the beautiful game. Our local and visiting football clubs Blacktown Football Park love nothing more than to do their with facilities that include very best, at the very best venues • Synthetic field, complete – playing, growing and excelling with grandstand seating in the sport they love. • Amenities We are delighted to have supported • 2 natural turf fields almost 1,000 events this past year by providing quality surfaces and • Administrative offices housing amenities across two venues. Blacktown District Soccer Football Players, administrators and Association (BDSFA) supporters continue to grow Anne Aquilina Reserve featuring the game in Blacktown. • 4 natural turf fields with an amenities block

12 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 13 Blacktown Football Park, the place to be. HOME IS WHERE THE PARK IS Blacktown District Soccer Football Association lives here

The NSW Premier League, Additional programs have kept the Lifting their game and raising Blacktown Spartans are owned kids on course for excellence the trophy are the goals to by the Blacktown District Soccer thanks to: which the 23 BDSFA clubs Football Association (BDSFA) • Spartans’ skills acquisition aspire. Blacktown Football Park and enjoy all the advantages that programs for girls and boys, was the venue where: Blacktown Football Park offer. 9 years and older • Blacktown City FC retained the Benefits that filter through to Blacktown Mayoral Cup against every member of the association. • Academy programs for 7 to 11 year old boys and girls the Blacktown Spartans based And thanks to BDSFA’s ongoing on aggregate scores over two commitment to the game and • The monthly Big Sister Little meetings during the NSW premier talent development, more and more Sister program launched in league season opportunities are being offered to May which saw the Spartans participate and grow in this dynamic 1st Grade women mentoring • All the finals action throughout and popular sport. local Association girls the Association played out • Association finals football played Growing the sport has a lot to do • Coach the Coaches courses by Spartans SAP Technical Director out across 7 curated pitches with establishing strong foundations. (1 synthetic and 6 turf) post the With outstanding amenities for to help ensure players and those guiding them are developing completion of stage 2 development all home games, and training, at Anne Aquilina Reserve the Association has been building for the future with: • 23 affiliated clubs across all competitive age groups • Spartans youth boys and girls • Association Youth League teams for 13 to 16 year old boys • Spartans National Premier League men and National Premier League women’s teams, inspiring younger players

14 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 15 WELL PLAYED JACK TAYLOR Blacktown legend’s legacy

Jack Taylor devoted 38 years of While that may be recognised A life member of BDSFA since 1997, his life to the service of Blacktown as a crowning achievement, a recipient of both the Football NSW District Soccer Football Association Jack’s tenure contributed to State award and Mayoral Shield, as Secretary (1987), Executive the extraordinary growth of the Jack is a shining example of service Director (2007) and finally CEO of Association. BDSFA swooped upon to one’s community. one of Australia’s premier sports the unprecedented enthusiasm and organisations. He hung up his interest in the sport, swelling player Thank you, Jack. boots this past year after helping numbers to 10,000 across 23 clubs. BDSFA achieve so much for the With Jack at the helm, BDSFA: wider community. • Led the way in governance, From playing for Bidwill Soccer participation and safety Club in 1979 to literally changing • Put children first, instilling a child the local landscape upon which safety culture through NSW this great game is played. Jack was Working With Children compliance the driving force behind securing a • Equipped their venues vital $5 million in State Government with defibrillators funds, working with Council and putting valuable contributions • Championed female participation from the district’s players to work • Instituted the NSW government’s on his vision. That vision was model constitution and versions what is now widely recognised thereof among clubs as a top tier football venue – Blacktown Football Park.

16 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 17 BLACKTOWN INTERNATIONAL SPORTSPARK SYDNEY Greater Western Sydney is winning

One of Australia’s most All sports in all conditions flourish Blacktown International Sportspark comprehensive sports precincts here because Sportspark caters Sydney is still the beating heart of has earned a reputation for to the needs of: sports development and excellence establishing and growing an • Top flight track athletes – providing world class facilities for all. inclusive culture of excellence from grassroots to the professional – The Athletics Centre features ranks. That’s something the whole a 1500 seat grandstand VISITATION community can not only take pride in and IAAF standard MONDO but actively enjoy. Over half a million synthetic track athletes, spectators and officials • Softball/Baseball players – having participated in 5,107 events – Each dedicated centre here ranging from athletics, baseball boasts a main diamond with and softball to australian rules 608,075 grandstand and function room football, cricket and football, making Sportspark the Western Sydney – A total of 4 softball diamonds EVENTS sports capital. and 3 baseball diamonds • AFL/Cricket teams – Two beautifully curated ovals, one with a 2,500 seat grandstand and function facilities that set the scene for 5,107 quality match-up in both high profile sports – An Indoor Practice centre for the cricketers and both outdoor turf and synthetic wickets. Howzat?! • Football Clubs and associations – Access Blacktown Football Park with synthetic field – Access to Anne Aquilina Reserve’s 4 full size soccer fields and amenities block – Home to specialist skills development including the International Goalkeepers Academy and Progressive Goal Keeping

18 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 19 “Blacktown is proud to be a sporting city, and we aim to support athletes from grassroots all the way through to the elite level.” KICKING GOALS Mayor Bali on why associations, teams and events choose Blacktown. FOR DIVERSITY Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney hosts Aussie Rules

Blacktown City boasts • JLT Community Series – Sydney 177 nationalities speaking Swans v GWS Giants 169 languages and a passion – A tightly contested derby saw the for AFL. It’s little wonder then, squeak past the that Sportspark was selected as GWS Giants in March – and the the venue for several national, rivalry continues! international and local events where diversity stood out from the crowd. • AFL Diversity Championships From grassroots talents through to – Now in its 4th year, the seasoned professionals, AFL players championships were held for came together in an environment the first time in Blacktown. fostering cultural enrichment, The event saw 300 players athletic development and a from across Australia come genuine love of the game. together, in April, under the joint banners of multiculturalism and This past year, thousands of Australian rules football spectators have been treated to an array of AFL talent on display – Upon the traditional lands of at Sportspark including: the Darug people, respect, skill and healthy competition • AFL NAB Women’s GWS Giants was celebrated at Sportspark Home Games – All participants from coaches and – Sportspark is now home umpires through to doctors and to the GWS Giants and trainers contributed to an elite AFL 4000 spectators turned out program environment at facilities for their 2017 home opener second to none against Fremantle, battling to a thrilling draw. With the • AFL Intensive English Cup popularity of women’s AFL – Students from 14 Intensive English soaring, the sport makes for Centres (IEC) across Sydney a wonderful family day out and Wollongong descended on – Thrilling games at Sportspark Blacktown for the 6th annual gala will be the norm for years to event held this past July come. The best junior female – Many languages, so many footballers gave it their all at the cultures, one competition, NAB AFL Women’s Under 18s all part of the AFL’s engagement Championship in May. All hoping programs embracing migrants to catch the eye of coaches and and refugees recruiters, crowds were treated • Sydney AFL season including the to fierce competition for the Final Series and the Grand Final championship and a place in 2018’s expanded 8-team league • Home to Western Magic and Blacktown Suns • North Eastern AFL Competition games and finals

20 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 21 ATHLETICS Staying on track The future of athletics to excellence is right here

Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney Athletics As the venue of choice for school carnivals, Blacktown Centre provides every advantage to budding stars, International Sportspark Sydney Athletics Centre offers enthusiasts and elite athletes. elite level facilities for all aspiring athletes and athletics enthusiasts. Students took full advantage of the facilities Once again, over 148,724 athletes and spectators were over the course of: welcomed to the venue, enjoying athletic carnivals, training and community events. The performance and participation • 79 primary and secondary school carnivals culture is why schools, clubs and professionals continued • 27 zone carnivals flocking to this accessible centre of excellence that places • 5 regionals carnivals athletic endeavour, pride and achievement above all else.

22 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 23 WHEELCHAIR SPORTS ELITE INTERNATIONAL MATCH-UPS Summer down under Wheelchair Sport NSW series rolled into town All athletes deserve the best coaching and development available and those participating in wheelchair sports Spectators and athletes alike couldn’t ask for a better could not ask for a more qualified NSW Institute of Sport preparation for the international 2017 GIO Summer Down coach than multiple gold medal-winning Paralympian, Under series last Australia Day at The Rocks. Louise Sauvage. The training and guidance these athletes access is crucial to elite accomplishments. Whether Paralympians and celebrated wheelchair athletes brought performing on the local track or the world’s largest stage, their A game from the track in Rio to Blacktown to settle the facilities offered at Blacktown International Sportspark scores and cement their legacies at the Sydney Skins Sydney provide the perfect setting for excellence. Track Meet in January. Spectators were treated to a free, up-close glimpse into their preparation, explosive performances and professionalism.

Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney’s Athletics Centre provided the settings and these extraordinary athletes did the rest.

24 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 25 COMMUNITY EVENTS In it for the long run Supporting each other

The Westlink M7 Blacktown Running Festival ran for the A community that comes together in support of those less third time, offering participants the opportunity to compete fortunate is a community that cares about bettering the against each other and themselves across a variety of quality of life for all. In support of that notion, Blacktown disciplines. The festival tested all manner of athletes over International Sportspark Sydney hosted the annual the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10km and 4km events as Blacktown Relay for Life at the Athletics Centre. The event well as the walking events over 10km and 4km. was a 24-hour fundraiser for the Cancer Council to assist with education, support and advocacy services whilst: Whether simply taking in the sights or keeping their sights set on a personal best, runners made the most of the • Celebrating cancer survivors event here in Western Sydney’s premier sports precinct. • Remembering those who lost their battle with the disease and • Raising much needed funds for treatments and a search for a cure

The Sportspark facilities and surroundings once again proved a perfect setting for a variety of open days, galas and athletics carnivals. Some to lend a hand, others in the pursuit of the fitness lifestyle and the spirit of healthy competition, all because the community cares.

26 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 27 PLAY BALL! Home runs at baseball

Diamonds are for everyone or so • Winners’ circle it would seem as baseball players – Hills Little League won from the local scene to interstate the Australian Little League powerhouses to International Championships and represented heavy-hitters took to Blacktown Australia for the 2nd year in a row International Sportspark Sydney’s at the Little League World Series Baseball Centre. As a former Olympic competition and training – Greater Western Baseball site, the Centre’s three dedicated Association won their way to diamonds and grandstand facilities, the Senior League nationals once again, proved the perfect: for the first time (BISP’s local Association) • Home – Cronulla represented NSW – The Sydney Blue Sox based and then Australia in the Junior their 2016/17 Australian Baseball League World Series in Taylor, League campaign here, playing Michigan, USA all home games and practicing at the Baseball Centre – Australian National Junior Championships featured – Baseball NSW’s preferred venue two teams from NSW for a variety of competitions and championship play – Team Australia took three Blue Sox players to the • Host World Baseball Classic – The reigning champions of The Baseball Centre will, once the vaunted Korean Baseball again, prepare players for the League, the Doosan Bears, world stage as the sport returns returned to the Sportspark to the 2020 Olympics in Japan, for their spring preseason cementing Blacktown International training camp Sportspark Sydney as a destination – Baseball NSW state and for excellence. regional championships were contested at the Sportspark throughout the season – 2017 Junior and Senior Baseball State Championships featured 17 teams last April

28 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 29 CRICKET From pathways to elite

Recognised internationally for the • The continuing evolution of pristine condition of the grounds Women’s cricket and pitches, Sportspark once again – Sydney Thunder of the Women’s attracted all manner of enthusiasts Big Bash League played all their and participants in all forms of home fixtures at the Sportspark the game. This season at Blacktown International Sportspark – Women’s National Cricket Sydney saw: League matches continued growing in stature at this • International guests popular venue – New Zealand’s Canterbury • Grassroots development for cricket team selected the the love of the game Sportspark as the preferred venue for its training and – Cricket NSW local and regional exhibition match against school programs such as gala Cricket NSW 2nd XI days and special skills sessions, made elite training methods – Bangladesh Coach, Chandika accessible to students Hathurusingha led preparations for his nation’s Test Series – Activities included skill sessions against New Zealand at the and gala days at venues where Sportspark facilities citing, the young are encouraged “the first-class facilities to dream big and excellent team The main driver behind the “… it is great to see these outstanding athletes of greenkeepers” continuous development of getting the support and attention they deserve – Teams from Papua New Sportspark’s facilities and the Guinea, Pakistan and Hong game’s status, is the pride and through competitions such as the Women’s Kong also got the most from enjoyment that builds on the the facilities in their pursuit community’s enviable sports culture. Big Bash League. (They’re) leading the way of international acclaim for up and coming stars of the future, and give Blacktown community a chance to enjoy high class cricket in their backyard.” Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali lauding the growth of women’s cricket.

30 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 31 INTERNATIONAL GOALKEEPERS ACADEMY More than a decade of dedicated defence

Former Australia goalkeeper and After 11 successful years, Jim hung Hall of Fame inductee, Jim Fraser, up his boots and handed his gloves dedicated 11 years to developing over to top goalkeeping coach the talents of goalkeepers Ken Greenhead. Ken is carrying and strikers. on the tradition and developing The last line of defence always the future stars of tomorrow with comes first in a game where ‘Progressive Goalkeeping’. stopping goal attempts is often Thank you, Jim. the first priority. In an environment that develops and nurtures high performance, it made sense that special emphasis should be placed on the art of goalkeeping. Notable successes have included: • English Premier League, Bournemouth FC keeper, Jordan Holmes • Former participants playing important roles in the Hyundai A-League • Appearances by Academy alums in various European leagues • A culture of excellence and inclusiveness in coaching at every level

32 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 33 RUGBY LEAGUE Planned preparation unlocks elite performance

Blacktown International Sportspark Visiting Tongan players also Sydney continues to grow its represented Brisbane Broncos, reputation as a destination for elite Canterbury Bulldogs, Cronulla athletes preparing to compete at Sharks, Gold Coast Titans, Manly the highest levels. Leading up to Sea Eagles, Melbourne Storm, their important fixture in the Pacific New Zealand Warriors, North International Rugby League Test, Queensland Cowboys, Parramatta the Tongan team descended on Eels, , St George Blacktown to complete the lead-up Illawarra Dragons, to their clash with Fiji. and .

Despite never having hosted an Championing the sentiments of international calibre rugby league Blacktown’s sporting community, team, the Sportspark facilities Blacktown City Mayor, Councillor accommodated team Tonga’s every Stephen Bali encouraged fans to need as they set their sights on their show their support for the team’s ‘6 May’ match-up. Boasting a group fan day and wish them well during of players that all came from an their stay. elite NRL system, Mate Ma’a Tonga coach, Kristian Woolf, was clearly Regardless of sport, code and impressed with the facilities and level of performance, athletes, the warm welcome. officials and spectators alike are all welcome at Sportspark.

34 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 35 SOFTBALL Pitching for the top

Recognising the quality of Acknowledging the world class Sportspark facilities, high profile facilities at Blacktown International international teams returned to Sportspark Sydney, Blacktown the Softball Centre in the hopes City Mayor, Councillor Stephen of taking another step towards Bali lauded the quality of play the Olympic Dais. adding, “I look forward to Australia continuing their campaign towards Australia’s softball legacy will the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.” continue to be built from the grassroots up as Blacktown With the strength of Blacktown’s International Sportspark Sydney sporting culture and the support supported another year of softball at offered to local leagues, the game every level. and Australia’s future in it are • International in exceptional hands. – The 2017 Softball Down Under series saw two Australian teams pitched against Japan and New Zealand national squads – Japan’s National team chose Sportspark to continue their summer training camp – 7 other international teams from Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand and USA, were drawn to the world class softball facilities • National – The Women’s Open Championship – 70th Annual Gilley’s Shield, was contested in January with the NSW Firestars taking the honours – Under 17s Championships were contested at the Sportspark with NSW claiming the 48th Esther Deason Shield

36 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 37 WESTERN SYDNEY “Blacktown is the Western Sydney WANDERERS Wanderers FC’s spiritual home.” Mayor of Blacktown City, FOOTBALL CLUB Councillor Stephen Bali. Inspiring the football generation

Sportspark has proven central to Western Sydney Wanderers FC the continuing growth of the game also chose to train and house of football in Western Sydney, their administration headquarters supporting leagues with top flight at Sportspark, further validating facilities in which to develop. Hyundai its high-performance credentials. A-League heavyweights, Western And with Western Sydney proving Sydney Wanders FC continue to to be the breeding ground for elite provide the inspiration and expertise, performance, it makes sense that weighing in with training and the spiritual home of the Western coaching sessions at Sportspark: Sydney Wanderers FC will be right • A-League here at Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney. • Wanderers Youth League training • Women’s league team training The development of their and games Administration and training base is well underway. • School holiday training clinics

38 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 39 “I would like to commend Kieran JOE MCALEER Meurant and the Blacktown Venue Management team on receiving the RESERVE Cricket NSW 2016/17 Ground of the Year for Joe McAleer Oval.” Prepared to be the best Pitch-perfect conditions Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Stephen Bali. Joe McAleer or “Joe Mac” to the local cricket fraternity for developing talent is Blacktown’s only single purpose, first grade cricket oval. Providing players, members, guests and spectators The Blacktown Warriors players, coaches and spectators of Blacktown City and District Cricket Association and thrived at “Joe Mac” with: their first-grade cricket club Blacktown Grade Cricket • The First-grade team finishing third in the limited overs Club with a first-class experience was the singular focus fixtures while jumping to 12th in the two-day competition of Blacktown Venue Management. • Development opportunities and trials for junior players The efforts did not go unnoticed. • All training sessions being held at the facilities Joe McAleer Oval was awarded Cricket NSW Ground • Cricket NSW Academy fixtures being hosted of the Year Award for season 2016/17 – an honour at the ground it narrowly missed last year, Blacktown Venue Management’s first year in the role. Players, officials and visitors from far and wide, were unified in their praise of the work done by the Not surprisingly, Joe McAleer Reserve facilities are grounds team. pitch perfect and include: Joe McAleer Reserve, just one more way Blacktown • First grade cricket oval kept in pristine condition supports sports excellence and excellent sports. • Club house, kiosk and change rooms for the convenience of all VISITATION • Sheltered spectator areas • Turf Cricket nets • Playground 36,121

AWARDS

Cricket NSW Ground of the Year Award for season 2016/17

40 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 41 LOOKING FORWARD Blacktown City Council is committed to several transformational projects which will meet the community’s aspirations for the city. These projects identify key priorities for our community, including “breakthrough” areas to advance the long term strategy. Council, along with the other relevant stakeholders, will work towards delivering these projects, ensuring the vision is achieved. Two key transformational projects scheduled for Blacktown Key Venues are the Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney Master Plan and the International Centre of Training Excellence.

Blacktown International International Centre of Sportspark Training Sydney Excellence Master Plan A technologically advanced facility for sports science and training which A 10-year visionary master plan will will form the centrepiece of the build on the international reputation new Blacktown International of the Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney. Sportspark Sydney. Planned The facility will include an improvements include a public accelerated recovery centre full square hotel, athlete hostel, food and of leading edge rehabilitation beverage facilities, transport, and equipment to assist in the speediest traffic connections. possible recovery. Western Sydney is a ready-made sporting environment geared specifically towards developing and celebrating sustained sporting excellence.

56 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 YEAR IN REVIEW 2016–17 BLACKTOWN KEY VENUES 57 Proudly managed by

Proudly owned by