Maitland Park's Historic Robins Oval Officially Reopens After $1.9M Facelift

Jenny Aitchision MP, Xavier and Ava Bower, Mayor Philip Penfold.

Upgrades to one of Maitland’s most historic sporting facilities have now wrapped up, with the new and improved Robins Oval at Maitland Park officially opening today.

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Jointly funded by the NSW Government, Cricket NSW and Maitland City Council, the $1.9 million construction project involved refurbishing the Mick Hinman Pavilion, renamed in honour of Maitland cricket legend Harold (Mick) Hinman in 2003.

The Pavilion is now complete with reconstructed tiered seating, upgraded changerooms, a new canteen, amenities building and storage area.

Mayor Philip Penfold said these upgrades are ‘a big win for local sporting groups and the wider Maitland community.’

‘There’s a lot of history behind the facilities at Robins Oval, so it’s great to see them upgraded to modern standards, while maintaining their heritage nature,’ Mayor Penfold said.

‘The new and improved facilities give our community a space to watch and play their favourite sports, particularly cricket and we know they’ll be well used by locals for many years to come.’

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads and State Member for Maitland, The Hon. Jenny Aitchison MP said she was pleased to attend the official opening and see the upgraded facilities in person.

‘It’s great to see the NSW Government, Cricket NSW and Council working together to upgrade this important facility for the benefit of the wider community. I’m sure these upgrades will improve sporting events for local clubs and spectators now and into the future,’ Minister Aitchison said.

Cricket Manager Hunter/Manning and Infrastructure Northern NSW, Gary Fisher said Cricket NSW is ‘proud to invest in this project which was a true collaboration between all parties.’

‘The upgraded Pavilion will be a great asset for cricket in Maitland and the wider Hunter Valley and these improvements will help the region attract more carnivals and other events from across the state,’ Mr Fisher said.

This project was funded by a $150,000 grant through the NSW Government’s ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund, a $200,000 grant through the Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund (ACIF) and Council.