I live in the Grantham Farm area with my kids attending the Riverstone Public and High schools. What brings us to your doors today is not just our story, but a narrative resonating in every household of Riverstone. With the area's population surge, and housing developments pushing ahead at an alarming pace, our open spaces are sadly withering. Our children, the future of Riverstone, are facing a dire shortage of sporting facilities.

Community spaces and local sports are integral for the holistic development of children. They foster healthy habits, build friendships, and create a sense of belonging. Unfortunately, our neighborhood simply doesn’t have enough. Moreover, the existing facilities at Riverstone High School - a space that could be utilized so productively - remain out of public reach after school hours.

We propose that Riverstone High School’s open spaces and sporting amenities be made accessible for the community outside school hours. Furthermore, an injection of funds toward establishing new sporting areas like cricket nets and athletics Bays would be a substantial boon to both our children and the community.

Statistics from Australian Sports Commission show that community-based school premises sport facilities use can increase local sport participation by 23%. We believe enabling public use of the Riverstone High School facilities could propel similar growth here in Riverstone.

We also see a dual-way street of benefits: not only would the community get a platform to play and interact, but the school could make effective use of additional facilities funded by the local government. It could truly be a game-changer in the ever-evolving dynamics of how educational institutions facilitate community bonding.

Let's work collectively to build a healthy and active Riverstone - for ourselves, our children, and our future. Please support us in our pursuit to bring sports back into our lives. Sign the petition today.