WORK is underway to deliver a new playing field and upgraded facilities at Ray Owen Reserve in Lesmurdie, supported by a $5 million investment from the Cook government.

Funded through the WA recovery plan, the project will deliver a new playing field alongside the existing oval and upgrades to current facilities.

New floodlighting will also be installed to support evening training and competition across both ovals, which will be irrigated with new sustainable water infrastructure.

Accessible changeroom upgrades were completed at the reserve earlier this year to support inclusive sport, paving the way for the playing field expansion to begin as part of the venue masterplan.

A new scoreboard will also be installed for the Mazenod Junior Football Club, supported by a $50,000 WA Labor election commitment.

The project is being delivered as part of the state government's PlayOn WA: 2030 by 2030 initiative which is guiding investment in sport and recreation infrastructure across the State.

PlayOn WA will deliver 2030 community sport and recreation infrastructure items across WA by the year 2030, helping to deliver a lasting and positive impact across WA communities.

Klasey Hirst MLC said the reserve was already a hub for the Lesmurdie community.

“This exciting expansion will ensure these facilities can accommodate the growing needs of local sporting clubs.

“These upgrades are also about ensuring Ray Owen Reserve is inclusive and accessible for the community so everyone can enjoy the benefits of getting involved in local sport.

“The WA government is proud to be supporting projects like this right across our state that deliver lasting benefits for the community and make a positive difference to people's lives.”

Sport and Recreation Minister Rita Saffioti said it was great to see work underway on the Ray Owen Reserve playing field expansion which will create more opportunities for locals to participate in sport and complement the recently completed changeroom upgrades at the site.

“The WA Government is committed to delivering high-quality and accessible sporting facilities across the State to encourage greater participation in local sport.

“This project is part of the PlayOn WA initiative to deliver 2030 community sports infrastructure items across WA by the year 2030, supporting healthier, more connected communities.”