Bundaberg Cricket Association’s Salter Oval clubhouse and change room are receiving their most significant upgrade in 20 years.
The major renovations have been jointly funded by Queensland Cricket, Bundaberg Cricket Association and Bundaberg Regional Council with in kind support from local businesses.
The change rooms have just been completed and BCA treasurer Shaun Rose said it was a significant improvement.
“The change rooms were very derelict,” Shaun said.
“They were still functional, that’s probably all you could say about them.
“It will look a million bucks on where it has been.”
The building is now almost unrecognisable with all new plumbing fittings, flooring, paint and a new roof.
“Our old roof from what we understand probably wouldn’t have lasted another three to six months it was that dated.”
The clubhouse renovation, which includes a new canteen, bar, toilets and kitchen is about 90% completed.
“It will be good once the whole area is fitted out, ready for the upcoming season and the upcoming Country Challenge.
“We’ve also upgraded a lot of our toilets and vanities within the main building as well.
“We thought if we’re going to go to the effort of spending this sort of money we might as well go to that little bit extra and just freshen up that entire complex.”
Cricket change room upgrade step towards big games
Shaun said the upgrades were part of a long term plan to see games like the Big Bash League hosted on the grounds.
“The club is talking with Queensland Cricket and Bundaberg Regional Council about our next steps in terms of development.
“We feel it is important to take advantage of the success and interest which has been generated by the sport locally over the past 18 months.”
However he said the real benefit of the upgrades were for the local players.
“We’re investing in the future of cricket.
“The Bulls Masters the Queensland Country Challenge, they’re the bonuses.
“If you don’t have the facilities you’re not going to get the games.
“At the same time if you don’t reinvest back in to your facilities and back in to your playing equipment you’re not going to get your local players.
“The real reason we’ve done this is for our local players who have supported the BCA now for many years.”
He said the works were also part of the association’s push to encourage more children and women to participate in the sport.
“Just to have that freshen up, those sort of facilities do make a difference.”
Shaun said the association was extremely grateful for the many local businesses who had provided in kind assistance from builders and plumber to painters and flooring specialists.
“All these local businesses have really all hopped on board to help us to make that dollar go as far as it can.
“We’re absolutely massively appreciative of all the assistance because when it’s finished it will make a difference.”
Bundaberg Rugby League will be the first to experience the benefits of the newly improved change rooms with games at Salter Oval this weekend.
