That’s the opinion of Denman Devils Rugby League Football Club president Peter Ball, who welcomed the official opening of the multi-million dollar facility last Saturday.

Muswellbrook Shire Council unveiled the new-look centre, with mayor Martin Rush saying it would be the “envy of visiting clubs”.

The project, which took place over a number of years, features improved playing surfaces, a car park extension and lighting.

The adjoining building, valued at almost $1m, includes a multi-purpose room, modern canteen, home and away change sheds, referees/officials room, storage space and toilets.

“The club loves it,” Mr Ball said.

“It’s definitely a state-of-the-art facility – and one we’re proud of.

“It will make life so much easier, especially for all of the volunteers.

“The [dressing] sheds are heaps bigger.

“I can actually strap the boys up in the room now.

“The playing surface is second to none, too.

“Everyone’s done a great job.”

Mr Ball praised the two major organisations who financially supported the project – Glencore Mangoola Open Cut mine and Muswellbrook Shire Council.

“Quite simply, without Mangoola, we don’t have it,” he said.

“We’re very appreciative of them and council.

“While we’ll [rugby league] obviously gain a lot having this facility; it’s a plus for the entire community.”

Cr Rush said council had been encouraged by the backing of the residents.

“I know you will all welcome the completion [of this facility] – and enjoy the new level of service it provides,” he said.

“I recognise the strong support for the project by Glencore Mangoola, the Denman Sandy Hollow Junior Rugby League Football Club and the Denman Devils Rugby League Club.

“Since 2011, council has invested more than $2m (not including the cost of the building) on significant improvements and upgrades to the standard of the fields and facilities at the town’s premier sporting and recreation venue.

“The costs of the project to replace the old amenities building have been met by an allocation of $234,000 of council funds and $652,000 from the Glencore Mangoola Denman Recreation Area contribution, as well as money from Mangoola’s development contributions negotiated through its Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) with council in 2012.

“I’d also like to thank the National Rugby League (NRL), Country Rugby League (CRL) and NSW Government for their support through the Footy Grants program, which contributed to the cost of the new fencing.

“Council’s contractors Alpall Pty Ltd Builders undertook the construction works on time and on budget.”