Federal Member for Barton, Mr Nickolas Varvaris today announced that he has gained in principal support of the St George Illawarra Dragons to share UOW Jubilee Oval, Kogarah, and its facilities, with the Caltex Socceroos and Westfield Matildas.
Football Federation Australia (FFA) and Football NSW (FNSW) are delighted with the recent announcement from Mr Varvaris and the benefits it would bring to the local area, which would include:
1. The NRL St George Illawarra Dragons will continue their current usage of UOW Jubilee Oval.
2. UOW Jubilee Oval will be shared with football. The NRL St George Illawarra Dragons will continue to have priority usage.
3. The Oval to be a preferred NSW training facility both for the Caltex Socceroos and Westfield Matildas.
4. The Oval to be a preferred venue for the Westfield Matildas when playing matches in NSW.
5. Visiting International Football teams may use the oval as a preferred training ground.
“I have been working on this initiative with all involved representatives to deliver this outstanding announcement for the St George area,” Nickolas Varvaris MP said.
“Such agreement would not only provide much needed attention to the St George area, it will be a great chance for local fans and fellow sporting enthusiasts to witness first hand their sporting heroes.
“Both Federal and State Governments have contributed considerable money to this facility with the intent of it being used by all codes
“This is an agreement I am seeking and have worked on with all involved for the previous 2 and a half years.
“I have chaired the Steering Committee overlooking the upgrades since these major works were undertaken, and I have always been a long-term supporter of these facilities to be used by as many local sporting and community groups as possible.”
FFA CEO Mr David Gallop said: “We are delighted that the Caltex Socceroos and Westfield Matildas may be able to use Jubilee Oval as a preferred training venue. This is a tremendous lift for football.”