LIGHTING UP STAN PAYNE OVAL: $200,000 SECURED FOR EVANS HEAD SPORTING PRECINCT

Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson is delighted to announce $200,000 in NSW Government funding to support Richmond Valley Council’s major lighting upgrade at Stan Payne Oval in Evans Head.

The funding will help deliver a state-of-the-art floodlighting system across the entire precinct — ensuring local footy, cricket, tennis, and touch football can continue safely under lights, even during poor weather or shorter winter days.

“This is a big win for Evans Head,” Mr Williamson said.

“Stan Payne Oval is the beating heart of local sport, and this upgrade will make a real difference for players, spectators, and the broader community.”

In welcoming the funding, Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow said Stan Payne Oval was a popular community recreational area and it was pleasing to know all fields could soon facilitate more activity at night and in poor visibility weather.

Cr Mustow said the upgrade of the oval’s floodlighting represented a significant step in delivering on the objectives in the Stan Payne Oval Master Plan, which was adopted by the Council in 2023.

“The new lighting will extend the usability of the oval into the evenings, supporting local sports clubs, community events, and casual recreation for all ages,” he said.

“It’s an exciting development which will help foster stronger community connections, encourage greater participation in physical activity, and ensure the oval remains a vibrant hub for local engagement.”

The upgrade includes 41 new floodlights and four 32-metre galvanised steel lighting poles, enabling all fields to be used safely at night and in low-visibility conditions.

This investment highlights the shared commitment of Council and the NSW Government to improving access to sport and recreation in regional communities.

PHOTO: Clarence Nationals MP Richie Williamson and Richmond Valley Mayor, Robert Mustow joined with members of the Stan Payne Oval Committee and Year 10 students from Evans River K-12 School to celebrate the announcement.