LOCAL LIFE
Blacktown City serves up new beach
volleyball courts in Glenwood
Western Sydney is set to spike into action with the opening of the new stateof-the-art Blacktown City Beach Volleyball Courts at Glenwood Reserve , Glenwood . The facility officially opened to the community at the end of 2024 , providing an exciting new sporting opportunity for all ages .
The $ 1 million project , funded through the NSW Government ’ s Office of Sport ’ s Greater Cities Sport Facility Fund , is a game-changer for local sport , bringing the thrill of beach volleyball to a region not traditionally associated with the sandbased sport .
Mayor Brad Bunting of Blacktown City Council said the new facility highlights the Council ’ s commitment to providing a range of sporting opportunities for the community .
Trying out the courts .
“ Our vibrant and growing community deserves access to as many sporting and recreational activities as possible ,” Mayor Bunting said .
“ There is no reason why a sport like beach volleyball should be confined to coastal areas . This facility is about equity , opportunity , and fostering talent right here in Western Sydney ,” Mayor Bunting said .
He also highlighted the venue ’ s potential to produce future champions .
“ This complex opens the door for young athletes in our region to dream big . Who knows , the next Olympic Beach Volleyball gold medallist might come from Glenwood .” A state-of-the-art facility The multi-court complex is the first of its kind in Western Sydney and offers
Glenwood volleyball courts . opportunities for both competitive and recreational beach volleyball . The venue is designed to cater to a wide range of skill levels , making it accessible and welcoming to the entire community .
NSW Minister for Sport , The Hon . Steve Kamper MP , said , “ Local sport infrastructure plays a critical role in keeping communities healthy , active and connected .”
“ The NSW Government is committed to helping provide facilities that allow all people to enjoy and take part in sport from the grassroots and beyond .”
Volleyball NSW CEO , Baz Wedmaier said , “ Venues like Blacktown City Beach Volleyball Courts are critical to the future of our sport . The current Olympic Gold Medallists come from Sweden where they train in a location just like this .”
“ Natural beaches are great but are not always accessible for some . This venue allows for locals to enjoy the sport at all levels , into the evenings with the lights and can deliver for our multicultural and disability community as well .”
Stephen Bali MP , State Member for Blacktown , said , “ These new beach volleyball courts are a fantastic addition to our community , providing a space
Unveiling the plaque with the Mayor of Blacktown City , Brad Bunting , councillors , Warren Kirby , MP for Riverstone and Volleyball NSW .
for people to stay active , improve skills like coordination and agility , and , just as importantly , enjoy themselves .”
“ Whether it ’ s celebrating a great rally or sharing a laugh when things don ’ t quite go to plan , these courts will bring people together in our community .”
Building community and sporting excellence Mayor Bunting added that projects like this strengthen communities , promote active lifestyles , and inspire the next generation of athletes to achieve great things . Volleyball NSW will work closely with the Council to activate the venue with programs and competitions designed to engage the entire community .
8 ISSUE 47 // FEBRUARY 2025 HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR ! theindependentmagazine . com . au BLACKTOWN CITY INDEPENDENT