Oberon Sports Ground to receive a face lift thanks to NSW Government

The NSW Government announced on Friday, January 18, that the Tigers’ home ground on Lowes Mount Road would be getting a new digital scoreboard and communications room upgrade. 

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole announced that the Oberon Council would receive a Stronger Country Communities Fund grant of $94,411 for the upgrades which will allow the club to comply with best-practice guidelines of rugby league’s governing body.

Tigers president Ian Christie-Johnston said the club is extremely thankful for the great.

“We’ve currently got a clock with hands that needs to be manually started,” he said. 

“The old clock has been quite contentious about players arguing that the clock is different to the referee’s and counting down the time of a sin bin. 

“Our scoreboard is manual, where you have to slot the scores in. That proved to be reliable but it requires a volunteer to be there changing it.” 

The upgrades to the Oberon Sports Ground will transform the venue into a modern Country Rugby league precinct.

“We’re very thankful, the Oberon community is very thankful and so is the Oberon Council,” Christie-Johnston said.

“Also, big thanks to to the guys on the community who have put in the effort to chase these grants.

“It’ll be a great boost for the Oberon region and we’ll be able to host major rugby league carnivals.

“We endeavour to get something happening rather soon than later, but these upgrades will be a process throughout the season.”  

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said that the new scoreboard will provide an key income stream for the Tigers, as they will be able to sell digital advertising on game day.

“Oberon’s sporting culture is part and parcel of the local community with rugby league having a great following during the winter months as the Tigers’ have more than 100 registered junior players, about 90 senior players and a loyal band of supporters,” he said.

“This grant also helps showcase local businesses and shows that Oberon is willing to invest in facilities, without constantly asking for sponsorship funds.

“It will also foster pride and a sense of ownership of the ground among residents. It’ll enable Oberon to be promoted outside the district, with the township being able to provide facilities to attract major sporting events, including Country Rugby League representative fixtures.”

In 2019, Oberon Tigers will be looking to win their first grand final since 1975.