The future could be looking even brighter for the Gerringong Lions after Opposition Leader Mark Speakman pledged $200,000 for much-needed lighting upgrades at the iconic Michael Cronin Oval.

Liberal candidate for the upcoming Kiama by-election, Serena Copley and the Party's state leader announced on Saturday that they would commit the funding if Labor is voted out of government at the 2027 election.

“The NSW Liberals are backing regional sporting clubs like the Gerringong Junior Lions because they promote healthy and active lifestyles and give our kids the chance to thrive,” Copley said.

“The Gerringong Junior Lions are such an important part of this community, with mums, dads and volunteers working tirelessly to keep the club strong.

"This commitment is about backing their efforts and ensuring the facilities meet the needs of players and families today.”

The funding will result in upgrades to the lighting at the Oval, replacing the light poles that are at the end of their life and with new LED lighting installed to bring the ground up to current standards.

“This is about backing the region’s sporting clubs and players, young and old, and supporting them in providing opportunities for their local communities," Speakman said.

“In three budgets, Labor has neglected the needs of this community.

“This $200,000 commitment is a further demonstration of the NSW Liberals’ ongoing commitment to investing in the roads, hospital, schools and sporting facilities needed to support communities in this region.”

Shadow Minister for Sports Eleni Petinos added: “Michael Cronin Oval is the beating heart of Gerringong sport, used by players and families from Kiama through to Shoalhaven Heads.

“These lighting upgrades mean more opportunities for kids - women and men to train and play safely into the evening, and for the whole community to enjoy this much-loved oval.

“Projects like this deliver real benefits to grassroots clubs, ensuring athletes have access to quality sporting infrastructure which encourages participation and growth.

“Many notable rugby league players have played on this footy field over the years including Mick Cronin, Rod Wishart, Tariq, Ashton and Korbin Sims – and I have no doubt many more will follow in the years to come.”

Hamish Stewart, Dylan Egan, Kyle McCarthy, Hayden Buchanan and Ashton Ward have broken into the NRL this year, joining fellow Lions juniors Tyran Wishart, Jackson Ford and Reuben Cotter in the premiership ranks.

This upgrade will mean Lions’ players will be able to train and compete safely in the evening.

“It’s a simple but important step that will make a real difference for local sport," Copley said.

"This investment will improve the Oval for everyone - players, volunteers and spectators - and provide more opportunities for our young people to get involved in sport.

“The club has done its fair share of work raising funds and improving the ground over the years.

"This announcement recognises their dedication and delivers the support they deserve.”

Gerringong Rugby League Football Club committee member, Jodie Egan, said the lighting upgrade would allow them to host Friday and Saturday night games, creating many more home game opportunities and increasing the numbers of participants.

"To receive the promise of $200,000 towards a LED Lighting upgrade for Michael Cronin Oval would be 'club-changing" for us.

Serena Copley and Mark Speakman.

“Improved lighting will mean night games and also increase the night training opportunities.

"We currently have 22 teams and approximately 500 people that need to use the one oval for training and game day - so access during daylight hours is currently extremely limited.

However, upgraded LED Lighting would change all of this."