Five sporting facilities across Baw Baw Shire are set to receive over $1.1million in State Government funding to support the delivery and planning of upgraded infrastructure and female friendly facilities for our growing sporting clubs.
Through the Victorian Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund, Council was successful in obtaining funding for five separate projects:
- Hallora Recreation Reserve LED Electronic Scoreboard – $40,861
- Longwarry Recreation Reserve LED Electronic Scoreboard – $60,859
- Western Park Netball LED Electronic Scoreboard – $6,971
- Baxter Park Female Friendly Pavilion Upgrade – $1,000,000
- Western Park Pavilion Detailed Design Project* – $30,000
*Subject to future Council decision
Both Hallora and Longwarry Recreation Reserves and the Western Park Netball Courts will receive an upgraded LED full colour digital scoreboard including AFL and cricket scoring software, advertising abilities and wireless control. The new screens will replace the existing, static, and outdated scoreboards and enhance the sporting experience for all participants, spectators and visitors to the reserves.
Funding has also been allocated to commence detailed designs for the main AFL and Cricket pavilion as part of the Western Park Masterplan. Progressing to the detailed design stage is subject to Council endorsing their preferred concept plans which are currently under development.
Baxter Reserve Pavilion will see new female friendly player change/amenities developed to ensure the facility provides greater inclusivity for its members and support the upward trend of female participation within the clubs.
The Warragul United Soccer Club secretary, Paul Sheehan welcomes the announcement, noting the advocacy and effort that goes into promoting female participation in sport at a local level.
“The recent announcement from the State government to contribute a further $1m to complete the Baxter Park Pavilion and female friendly changerooms is testament to the collaborative working relationship between our Club and Council. A great result for the region and the broader soccer community.
As a Club, we hope to expand further and grow our ever-increasing members, and the fantastic, upgraded facilities at Baxter Park will assist greatly in allowing us to achieve our vision” says Mr Sheehan.
These upgrades will complement the recently completed redevelopment works at Baxter Park including the $2.1 million synthetic pitch upgrade funded through Council’s 2020/21 Capital Works Program
