10th April 2026
Member for Myall Lakes, Tanya Thompson, has welcomed the NSW Under 14 Boys Field State Championships to Taree this weekend, saying the event is delivering a welcome boost to local businesses and the broader Manning Valley economy.
The three-day tournament at the Taree Hockey Centre is attracting hundreds of players, coaches and families from across New South Wales, with visitors staying locally, filling accommodation and supporting businesses throughout the region.
Mrs Thompson said the championships are one of just six events of this kind held across the state each year and commended the Manning Valley Hockey Association and its volunteers for their work in securing the event for the community.
“The effort from local volunteers to bring a major championship like this to Taree is something the whole community should be proud of,” Mrs Thompson said.
Mrs Thompson said the recent lighting upgrade at Allan Taylor Field, supported by $265,498 from the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants Program, has helped ensure the region can host competitions of this scale.
“This investment has helped bring Taree’s hockey facilities up to a high standard and ensures we can continue attracting events like this to our region,” she said.
“Not only does it create more opportunities for local players, it also brings visitors into our community who support our accommodation providers, cafes and local businesses.”
The upgraded lighting allows for extended play and increases the venue’s capacity to host larger competitions and future championships, supporting both sporting participation and local economic activity.
Mrs Thompson said events like the championships also provide young athletes with the chance to compete at a high level in front of their home community.
“It’s fantastic for local families to see talented young players from across the state competing here in Taree and showcasing the strength of grassroots sport in regional communities,” she said.
