The newly renovated Wes Cheney Pavilion at Woodward Oval was officially opened on Saturday coinciding with the Lachlan Premier Cricket grand final.
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The upgraded 61-year-old pavilion and new shelter was helped made possible through the collaboration of local and state government and sporting associations.
The $297,000 upgrade includes the replacement of all the internal and external walls and floors, including nailing of roofing iron, installation of a new kitchen, upgrades to the change and shower rooms, as well as the construction of a new unisex toilet.
A new awning and retaining wall were also constructed as part of the project.
The upgrade was funded in partnership by the NSW ICC T20 World Cup 2020 Cricket Legacy Fund ($100,000), Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund ($50,000), Parkes Shire Council ($142,000) and Parkes and District Cricket Association ($5000).
Built in 1959, the pavilion has played host to some of the great moments in Parkes sport featuring athletics, hockey, cricket, cycling, soccer and even league and union.
In 2015, the building was named after the late Wesley Berry Cheney in recognition of his herculean voluntary contribution to the Shire's sporting community, as well as the development of public recreation facilities in Parkes and district.
Currently, the Wes Cheney Pavilion is home to 250 senior and 220 junior registered cricket players.
Parkes Shire Mayor and Sports Council Life Member Councillor Ken Keith OAM said "this project has delivered safe, modern facilities and enhanced accessibility".
"This will ensure the ongoing attraction of local, regional and state cricket fixtures, as well as inclusive community participation in sport for both males and female players," he said.
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It was a fitting way to begin a successful day for Parkes cricket as Parkes Colts thumped Bowling Club by ten wickets in the Lachlan Premier Cricket decider.
A five-wicket haul from Phil Dunford paved the way to victory as Colts restricted Bowling Club to just 97 all out during the 37th over.
Dunford then strapped on the pads and combined with Peter Yelland to guide Colts to premiership glory in 21 overs.
Yelland departed for 27 however the winning total was passed, while Dunford capped a remarkable grand final performance remaining 59 not out. Bowling first, Colts new-ball bowlers Andrew Britt and Brent Tucker ripped through the Cowra-based side's top order.
Britt removed Tom Thauax (five) and Ben Colby (0) before Tucker cleaned up Ross Graham for one. Dunford was thrown the ball second change and produced a steady flow of wickets as Bowling Club lost 5-35.
Mick Curtale (49) provided some resistance however he and Lachlan Morrison (10) were the only batsmen to reach double figures.
Dunford finished with 5-24 from nine overs, while Britt had 2-19 off five overs.
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