Acting NSW Sports Minister Geoff Lee has expressed a desire to work with new ARLC supremo Peter V'landys on the upgrade of suburban grounds to improve the game-day experience for sporting fans.

In his first press conference after succeeding Peter Beattie, V'landys earmarked the redevelopment of ageing boutique facilities among his seven “big ticket” priorities for the game. The Racing NSW chief executive will host Lee on Saturday at the Golden Eagle race meeting at Rosehill, where the subject may be broached.

Manly fans have renewed hope of improvements to their home ground. Credit:Cameron Spencer

“I’m looking forward to catching up with Peter V'landys,” Lee said. “Coming from somewhere like Parramatta, I know the importance of local grounds for sport.

“Any opportunity we have to leverage off sport, we will have a look at. We’re open to any suggestions and would put everything on the table, especially when it comes to grassroots sport. Making sure it is female-friendly, ensuring the changerooms and amenities being better.