New Playing Fields Lauded
The new Central Playing Fields, a $21 million state-ofthe- art sports precinct spanning 4.5 hectares in Fontana Drive, Gables is already winning major fans.
Officially opened by Stockland and Hills Shire Council on Sunday 16th March, it is home to a premium hockey facility which is certified to host international and national hockey games.
The precinct also features multipurpose sports fields for soccer and rugby, full-sized basketball courts for basketball, netball, tennis and futsal, as well as a skate park, rock climbing structure, and children’s playground.
Kookaburras Captain, Mark Hager, and Hockeyroos Captain, Kaitlin Nobbs highlighted the importance of Central Playing Fields to the growth and support of hockey in the region.
“These Olympic-standard hockey pitches mean national and state championships can potentially be held onsite, giving young kids and budding players something to aspire to and encouraging more people to take up the sport. This precinct is an incredible investment in the growing area – the future of hockey is in good hands,” Mark said.
“I think it is really important for young athletes to have access to world class facilities such as this one at The Gables. For athletes to succeed, it is very important to be able to train as much as they need to, and a facility such as this sets them up for success,” said Kaitlin.
Hills Shire Mayor, Dr Michelle Byrne said; “Providing premier sporting facilities is central to Council’s strategy of creating pathways for residents to access elite sports and opportunities, as well as provide the Gables school, Santa Sophia College, with a dedicated place to play.”
Hockey NSW Acting CEO, Richard Griffiths said Hockey NSW was delighted that Stockland and the Hills Shire have developed an international standard hockey facility in western Sydney as part of The Gables community.
“There is a dearth of hockey fields in this part of Sydney and with two synthetic turf pitches and surrounding infrastructure, we now have a facility that will assist our endeavours to grow and develop the sport,” Mr Griffiths said.
Stockland General Manager Masterplanned Communities NSW/ACT, Sophie Ale said Central Playing Fields is set to become a social and active hub for the community. The community will have access to a fenced dog park and an amenities building with a canteen, change rooms and restrooms on site.
“The Gables Central Playing Fields will provide a space where local schools, sports clubs, residents and the wider community can stay active and make the most out of state-of-the-art sporting facilities,” she said.
“The Gables is a vibrant and connected community, and the Central Playing Fields caters to a variety of sports, meaning there’s something for everyone – from athletes and fitness enthusiasts to casual visitors wanting to enjoy the dog park or a kickabout with friends on the fields.”
