Friday, 14 August 2020

Western Park’s netball facilities in Warragul are set for transformation and boosted amenity, thanks to $1,440,000 in funding from the Victorian Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program.

Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP today announced that, following an extensive community campaign and collaboration with the Baw Baw Shire Council, the project has been funded as part of more than $68 million available across Victoria within the stimulus program.

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

The new facilities at Warragul’s Western Park will provide economic benefit through construction and additional visitor economy, with the increased capacity to host interleague training, programs, events and night games.

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 and upgraded courts and amenities, investments like this 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 and paid tribute to the hard work of club representatives and members, and Baw Baw Shire Council’s 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 boost the growing number of people of all ages and abilities across Baw Baw who are keen to get involved in netball 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.”