Mr Marshall said the project would help transform community sport into a modern and professional operation.

“There’s no shortage of sporting passion in Boggabilla, but young people currently have nowhere to play or train once the sun goes down,” he said.

“This funding will install floodlighting and electrical infrastructure on the town’s oval, allowing for evening training sessions matches that will increase its usage beyond daylight hours.

“This project will be a game-changer for sports in Boggabilla and better facilities will help boost civic pride and provide healthy pastimes for the town’s young people.

“The improved infrastructure will also help local sportspeople lock in home games with clubs from Moree, with each home game bringing in visitors and money, while heightening the profile of the town.

“There’s nothing better than playing an unforgettable game of rugby or cricket in front of an excited local crowd, and this project give dozens of youth that opportunity.”

The funding comes from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund, which Mr Marshall said was a part of the $1.3 billion Regional Growth Fund.

“Just a few years ago the Boggabilla sports ground was inhabited solely by weeds and broken grass – now it’s a frequently-used sporting mecca that the town can be proud of,” he said.

“This funding will build upon previous works to provide grandstand seating to house a growing crowd, build a storage shed, dressing rooms and new fencing.

“Boggabilla’s reinvigorated sporting community has proven a powerful force in bringing the community together, and this funding will prove the biggest upgrade the grounds have seen so far.

“While sporting clubs may go through tougher years, local sport is around to stay in Boggabilla and this funding will ensure players and spectators have the best facilities possible.”