In a final push to win over voters ahead of this Saturday’s 3 May federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made a $6 million pledge to upgrade Marrickville Golf Club.
The club is located in the Prime Minister’s local electorate, Grayndler.
“I care deeply about my local community and understand how important this precinct is,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.
“Whether you play golf, walk your dog or just want to catch up with friends and family, this will be a place the Inner West can take pride in, and this $6 million commitment demonstrates Labor’s plan to build Australia’s future.”
According to the Prime Minister, the upgrade would include expanding outdoor areas for “greater social and community enjoyment” as well as providing pedestrian and bike access to the precinct.
Sustainability will also be a focus with stormwater to be harvested, irrigating the golf course and the local sporting fields like Mahoney Reserve and Beaman Park, while boosting the health of the nearby Cooks River.
The club’s general manager Matt Ward believes the decision was a personal one for the Prime Minister.
“He’s acting out of loyalty and a genuine knowledge of the area. It’s easy to get the wrong idea about the golf club; we’re quite different to most golf clubs. This is more about the riverside park and enhancing the community at large, and I think Albanese sees the broader significance. That’s what we’re aiming for,” he said.
Ward explained how the club had previously approached the PM’s local office to support an upgrade.
“We contacted his office in his role as the Member for Grayndler — it’s one thing to approach the Prime Minister, and another to approach your local MP. It’s his role to help enhance local facilities.”
First opened in 1941, Marrickville Golf Club served as a meeting place for local returned service men and women of World War II — many of whom contributed and worked on the venue’s last major remodel in 1947.
Consistent with past practice, election commitments will be delivered in line with the Commonwealth Grants Rules and Principles.