“Sporting Clubs Unite at Westleigh”
For the first time perhaps ever, almost every local sporting and community group from Westleigh, Thornleigh and Normanhurst gathered together in unison on Ruddock Park on Sunday.
Hornsby Shire Mayor Steve Russell joined more than 1400 residents and stated the need for more sporting facilities in the area.
"There’s a need to have more facilities available for these local sporting groups and with the Hornsby Council negotiating to purchase the Westleigh Site is a big step towards this outcome."
Having such a wonderful community event on the back of both Thornleigh Thunder and Normanhurst Eagles presentation days, developed into a vibrant community opportunity.
Together the clubs represent more than 3000 families.
Football NSW’s Jas Virdee stated the important role sporting facilities played in the Westleigh, Thornleigh and Normanhurst area.
"I knew football was alive and growing, but this level of community involvement is unprecedented. I’ve never seen such a strong local event!"
Mayor Steve Russell added, “I was most impressed; it’s great to see so many happy, healthy and enthusiastic young people.”
Presidents and teams from all major sporting groups attended including cycling, netball, soccer, softball, Thornleigh West Public School, hockey, little athletics, basketball, cricket, baseball and mountain biking together with Westleigh Progress Association, the GHFA and representatives from both Sydney FC and the Western Sydney Wanderers.
The groups have formed the Westleigh Water Board Alliance (WWBA) with a purpose.
“To ensure we have a voice in planning and delivering the best utilisation of the development of the former Westleigh Water Board site to benefit the interests of the local community.”
WWBA Chairman Martin Dargan said, "Having so many local people come together to celebrate sport, enjoy the presentations and understand a little more about the tremendous opportunity in the development of 21Ha of land for local sport was fantastic.”
Hornsby Advocate proudly publishes herein a photo representing one of the largest representations of local community clubs we have ever seen in the one photo. What a terrific community event. Well done to the Alliance. It’s great to see such a wonderful community event.
