New lights shine a bright future for Mannum oval

The Mannum Oval has had a significant lighting upgrade this month, which is set to benefit local sporting clubs and community groups.

The old light towers have been replaced due to a collaborative effort between local government, the oval’s sport and community groups, Epic Energy and the South Australian National Football League (SANFL).

The new lights will officially be switched on at a community celebration next Thursday.

Owned by Mid Murray Council, the Mannum oval complex and showground is home to a number of sports and community organisations, including the Mannum Football Club.

Both the club and council sought help to upgrade the lighting through external support and grant applications.

South Australian based energy infrastructure company Epic Energy and the SANFL agreed to contribute to funding the project.

The construction of the building saw contribution from local businesses Eichler’s Earthmoving, BMH Cranes and Mid Murray Equipment Hire.

Mid Murray Mayor Simone Bailey said the oval lights replacement project was a shining example of what could be achieved when everyone worked together.

“We are excited and proud to see the way the Mannum community has come together to build something very special with these new light towers at the Mannum Oval,” Mayor Bailey said.

“This has been a true collaborative effort.

“This community facility is at the heart of Mannum; it’s a place where we cheer on our local teams, and where we get together to celebrate and connect.

"The new light towers mean not only can training and games be held at the oval, it also opens up new opportunities for our community to host major events here.

“This project, combined with the next stage of exciting upgrading works that council has planned for the precinct, will create a bright future."

Epic Energy’s chief executive officer, Clive D’Cruz, said the company was committed to supporting the communities it operates in.

Epic Energy owns the nearby Mannum Energy Park, including two solar farms and a battery energy storage system.

“We’re proud to support this important piece of infrastructure which is transformational for Mannum’s recreation and community hub,” Mr D’Cruz said.

“The need to upgrade the lights was consistently highlighted last year when we invited the community to tell us what would support a vibrant Mannum community.”

The lighting upgrade was managed and constructed by the CME Group, who are specialists in the design and construction of sports lighting.

The lights will be officially unveiled at the Mannum Oval at 5pm on Thursday, 3 July.

Drinks and meals will be available for purchase after a short ceremony.