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Riverstone is rapidly becoming the hub for youth in the state, a trend that shows no signs of slowing down. A recent audit by Schools Infrastructure underscores this, with the Schofields-East region within the Riverstone electorate seeing a significant surge in government school enrolments.

In 2018, there were 1,535 students enrolled, but by 2023, that number had skyrocketed to 4,762—more than three times the projected figure. In fact, the current student population in Schofields exceeds the numbers originally predicted for 2041. This gross underestimation highlights the challenges posed by rapid growth and the urgency for action.

With more young people calling Riverstone home, it is imperative they have access to the same amenities and infrastructure that past generations enjoyed. One glance at Google Maps reveals the stark reality: the fast-growing areas of Schofields and other northern pockets of the electorate lack sufficient green spaces, parks, and sporting fields.

South of Schofields Road, the landscape is dotted with parks, reserves, and long-established sports clubs that cater to both junior and senior teams. These legacy clubs have long been the heart of the community, offering spaces where sports like soccer, cricket, and netball bring people together.

In contrast, the northern parts of Riverstone, where growth is most rapid, have been left out. No space has been allocated for new sporting parks, leading to overcrowding at existing clubs and facilities.

While short-term solutions, such as upgrades to current facilities, are helpful, they are not enough. A long-term, multijurisdictional effort is required to address the shortfall and ensure that the northern parts of Riverstone are adequately serviced.

Older areas of the electorate, such as Stanhope Gardens and Quakers Hill, provide a glimpse of what a well-balanced community looks like. These suburbs benefit from a mix of pocket parks, playgrounds, nature reserves, and sporting fields, creating active spaces that promote both physical and mental well-being.

This is the kind of balance Riverstone’s new communities desperately need. Unfortunately, the previous government sold land to developers without ensuring these new communities were adequately serviced. As a result, Riverstone suffers not only from a lack of parks and sporting fields but also from inadequate transport, roads, and health services.

Sport plays a critical role in building community, especially in rapidly growing areas like Riverstone. When young families move to the area, local sports clubs provide a gateway for integration, helping both children and parents form connections.

For children, participating in sports is about more than just physical activity. It is about learning important life skills such as communication, teamwork, resilience, and patience. These lessons extend far beyond the playing field and contribute to personal development.

Riverstone is home to many talented young athletes, but they deserve equitable access to the same active spaces that children across the state enjoy. As the area continues to grow, the demand for parks, fields, and sporting amenities will only increase.

Addressing this shortage requires collaboration at all levels of government. I am committed to working with my ministerial colleagues, federal counterparts, and local councils to ensure Riverstone’s youth have the infrastructure they need to thrive.

Warren Kirby

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