Brunswick East football players looking to follow in the Matildas’ footsteps can now enjoy their revamped training grounds, with the completion of the Sumner Park pavilion.
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today joined Merri-bek City Council Mayor Cr Angelica Panopoulos and the Brunswick Zebras Football Club to officially launch the new female-friendly facilities, made possible by a $250,000 investment from the Andrews Labor Government.
The new pavilion features four new female-friendly player change rooms, a referee change room, a first aid room, new public toilets and refurbished social rooms, kitchen and storage areas – all compliant with Football Victoria standards.
With more than 500 players, including over 120 women and girls, the Brunswick Zebras has seen a huge growth in participation, bringing the need for upgraded facilities.
The new building is a welcome addition to the club’s main pitches, providing a perfect base for local football to grow teams, host more events and elevate the next generation of footballers.
Investments like these provide high-quality and accessible facilities that allow more Victorians to participate in community sport and connect with peers through local activities.
They also usher in great opportunities through new jobs, stimulating the local economy and improving the health, wellbeing, and social outcomes for Victorian communities.
The Labor Government’s investment in the pavilion was through the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund in partnership with Merri-bek City Council and the Brunswick Zebras Football Club.
The Victorian Budget 2023/24 is providing more than $213 million to deliver and improve community sports infrastructure and support initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs and organisations.
This brings the Labor Government’s investment into community sport and active recreation infrastructure to more than $1.9 billion since 2014.
For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit www.sport.vic.gov.au
As stated by Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
“With football in the spotlight more than ever, we’re ensuring local clubs like the Brunswick Zebras have a place to grow and where communities can come together.”
“The new female-friendly facilities are a game-changer for local football. Women and girls can say goodbye to changing in the back of the car.”
“They finally have the facilities they deserve to get active and play the sports they love, inspired by the Matildas’ recent run at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.”
