Friday, 14 August 2020

More local reserves across Latrobe Valley are set for transformation and improved amenity, thanks to a funding boost totalling $1,046,109 from the Victorian Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP today announced that these projects have been funded as part of more than $68 million available within the stimulus program.

These investments recognise the overwhelming demand for shovel-ready community sports infrastructure and are part of the Victorian Government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package creating jobs and kick-starting vital projects across the state.

The projects cover:

• Installation of new 100 lux LED sports field lighting at George Bates Reserve in Yallourn North to support Australian Rules football
• Installation of new 200 lux LED court lighting to netball courts at Northern Reserve in Newborough
• Installation of new 100 lux LED sports field lighting to Old Trafford Oval (Traralgon Recreation Reserve) in Traralgon and
• Installation of 100 lux LED sports field lighting to the AFL oval at Ronald Reserve in Morwell.

The projects will provide economic benefit through construction and additional visitor economy, with the increased capacity to host interleague training, programs, events and night games.

Each of these projects will also significantly increase participation and programming benefits for growing local club memberships and bring facilities up the required lighting standard. The scope includes lighting for AFL at 100 lux which meets minimum AFL standard for Amateur Level Club Competition and practice matches.

These investments are about helping grassroots sports communities get back in the game when the time is right.

From sports field lighting upgrades at multiple sites to new indoor sports courts, investments like these provide high-quality and accessible places for Victorians to reap the benefits of sport and active recreation participation.

They also generate jobs in construction and supply chains with benefits for local businesses through the Victorian Government’s Local Jobs First requirements which will be built into contracts.

The program is part of the more than $915 million in Victorian Government investment in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.

Ms Shing also acknowledged the Latrobe City Council for their collaboration and financial contribution to the project.

For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit www.sport.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP

“This investment will support the local economy and create jobs – and support the growing number of people across the Valley who are keen to get involved in sport and recreation and who deserve the right facilities to practice, train and compete.”

“We’re making sport and recreation more accessible, welcoming and inclusive for all Victorians by giving communities more of the facilities they need.”