Goulburn’s premier football facility will shine brighter than ever as the Southern Tablelands Football Association (STFA) officially opened its new LED lighting system at Cookbundoon Sporting Complex on Saturday, 26 July.
The $872,744 project, funded through the NSW Government’s Level the Playing Field program, will allow extended playing hours, safer conditions, and greater access to high-quality training and tournaments across the region. The new lights have already made a big impact during the 2025 season, but Saturday marked the official celebration of this milestone achievement.
STFA President Rob Scott said the upgrade is transformative and Saturday’s event is a celebration of years of hard work.
“This investment will allow more flexible training, better competition opportunities, and help us grow participation across the board – especially for women and girls.”
“We’ve used the lights a fair bit already this season, and the difference is phenomenal. Saturday’s event was about thanking those who helped us get here. We had a short presentation and photo opportunity before everyone enjoyed a top-quality All Age Women’s match under lights, in classic Goulburn winter conditions.”
More than 100 teams across junior and senior competitions play at Cookbundoon each weekend, making it one of the busiest community sports facilities in the region.
The official opening was also a chance to acknowledge the many partners behind the project. Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman supported the grant application, while Goulburn Mulwaree Council assisted with landowner consent and project logistics.
The STFA also extends its sincere thanks to local contractors including Aaron Grant Electrical, Coopers Earthmoving, ARW, Complete Power and Hollingworth Cranes, who contributed their expertise, with high-quality, trusted work being central to the project’s success.
Mrs Tuckerman said that Cookbundoon is the beating heart of community football in the Southern Tablelands.
“I’m proud to see this upgrade delivered, I know how hard STFA has worked to secure this grant and lighting is a game changer.”
“Only 26 projects were successful from 212 applications to the $30 million Level the Playing Field fund, making this win for Goulburn even more significant.”
It was unfortunate that the NSW Minister for Sport, the Hon. Stephen Kamper, could not attend the opening. He was represented by Goulburn Mulwaree Councillor Liz Mckeon.
The power upgrade has now been completed, with just one final variation (lighting for an additional field) expected to be finished by the end of September.
WENDY TUCKERMAN 