Sport and its promotion is critically important for the health of our society at all levels, binding us together in arenas across the state. Whether getting pummeled as a player on the try line at an NRL game, climbing steps in the stadium or having the best lung physio ever barracking for our team, an energetic community is the best prophylaxis against our obesity epidemic. Money spent on sport by Peter V’Landys or the government will save Medicare budgets in the future. With 16,000 fans packing Leichhardt oval last week, I’m wondering why “ground envy” and complaints based on “NRL standards” are driving an “urgent” redevelopment. (Is it the end of an era for Leichhardt Oval ? DT, 27/3). Considering the large number of teams, stressed government finances and Sydney’s magnificent transport infrastructure, it behoves the state government to ensure our new arenas are shared by several clubs, not ridiculously monopolised by single NRL clubs. Exclusivity of home-ground status should be expunged by the state, as it proves to be a much cheaper solution to the Tigers’ woes. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 28Mar2024