Australian Football League teams on the Northern Beaches will be kicking more goals after AFL NSW awarded $61,000 in grants to support the upgrade of facilities at North Narrabeen Reserve and Frank Gray Oval.

Northern Beaches Council staff worked with the Pittwater Tigers to secure a $50,000 grant for the redesign of the underused area of the North Narrabeen Reserve fields to allow the installation of a new junior Auskick field and to upgrade the amenities.

The Manly Warringah Wolves were successful as well receiving an $11,000 grant that allowed Council to relocate the goal posts at Frank Gray Oval to allow for a second open-age field adding an extra 10 playing hours a week. This improvement will be further enhanced by the female amenities upgrade due to completed by Council in September.

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said, "These grants will not only enhance the facilities for the AFL Clubs but also ensure the community has more opportunities to connect and improve their health and wellbeing."

Northern Beaches Council is committed to supporting the growth and development of local sports clubs and actively works with local groups to secure grants through third parties as well as the Council grants program.

“With continued investment in facilities and programs, the Council aims to pave the way for future opportunities for growth and development, creating a thriving culture that benefits all residents,” Mayor Heins added.

Head of AFL NSW/ACT Andrew Varasdi said "We are thrilled to support our community clubs and Councils to provide high-quality, accessible and welcoming facilities through the NSW Facilities Fund initiative.

"The Northern Beaches Council boasts the highest AFL participation of all local government areas in Sydney, and we hope the upgrade to North Narrabeen Reserve fields and Frank Gray Oval strengthen the foundations of grassroots footy locally and invite greater participation in our game.

"Creating the best environments that are fit for purpose so our players, parents and volunteers can enjoy our great game is of utmost importance to the AFL, and we look forward to seeing the community embrace these facility upgrades over the coming months." Mr Varasdi added.

 Works to North Narrabeen Reserve fields are being done outside of the AFL season to reduce any impact to teams. For more information please visit the Northern Beaches Council website and AFL NSW/ACT website for more information.

Media Contact: For media enquiries or images, please phone 0481 907 545 or email media@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au