POLITICS

with Warren Kirby MP

Riverstone is rapidly becoming the hub for youth in the state , a trend that shows no signs of slowing down . A recent audit by Schools Infrastructure underscores this , with the Schofields-East region within the Riverstone electorate seeing a significant surge in government school enrolments .

In 2018 , there were 1,535 students enrolled , but by 2023 , that number had skyrocketed to 4,762 - more than three times the projected figure . In fact , the current student population in Schofields exceeds the numbers originally predicted for 2041 . This gross underestimation highlights the challenges posed by rapid growth and the urgency for action .

With more young people calling Riverstone home , it is imperative they have access to the same amenities and infrastructure that past generations enjoyed . One glance at Google Maps reveals the stark reality ; the fast-growing areas of Schofields and other northern pockets of the electorate lack sufficient

green spaces , parks , and sporting fields .

South of Schofields Road , the landscape is dotted with parks , reserves , and long-established sports clubs that cater to both junior and senior teams . These legacy clubs have long been the heart of the community , offering spaces where sports like soccer , cricket , and netball bring people together .

In contrast , the northern parts of Riverstone , where growth is most rapid , have been left out . No space has been allocated for new sporting parks , leading to overcrowding at existing clubs and facilities . While short-term solutions , such as upgrades to current facilities , are helpful , they are not enough . A long-term , multi-jurisdictional effort is required to address the shortfall and ensure that the northern parts of Riverstone are adequately serviced .

Older areas of the electorate , such as Stanhope Gardens and Quakers Hill , provide a glimpse of what a well-balanced community looks like . These suburbs benefit from a mix of pocket parks ,

playgrounds , nature reserves , and sporting fields , creating active spaces that promote both physical and mental wellbeing . This is the kind of balance Riverstone ’ s new communities desperately need .

Unfortunately , the previous government sold land to developers without ensuring these new communities were adequately serviced . As a result , Riverstone suffers not only from a lack of parks and sporting fields but also from inadequate transport , roads , and health services .

Sport plays a critical role in building community , especially in rapidly growing areas like Riverstone . When young families move to the area , local sports clubs provide a gateway for integration , helping both children and parents form connections . For children , participating

in sports is about more than just physical activity . It is about learning important life skills such as communication , teamwork , resilience , and patience .

These lessons extend far beyond the playing field and contribute to personal development .

Riverstone is home to many talented young athletes , but they deserve equitable access to the same active spaces that children across the state enjoy . As the area continues to grow , the demand for parks , fields , and sporting amenities will only increase . Addressing this shortage requires collaboration at all levels of government . I am committed to working with my ministerial colleagues , federal counterparts , and local councils to ensure Riverstone ’ s youth have the infrastructure they need to thrive .