Soccer has been given a handy kick-along at Kyneton, with significant upgrades to Barkly Square finally complete.
A $1 million pavilion, funded by Macedon Ranges council, the state government and Kyneton District Soccer Club, includes change-rooms for male and female players to help cater for an increasing number of women and girls playing the roundball game.
Works also included upgrades to older buildings and public toilets and landscaping and connection to recycled water via an automated irrigation system.
A new roundabout at the corner of Barkly Square has also improved traffic near the sports ground, which has two soccer pitches, social and umpires’ rooms.
Soccer club president Ron Cole said an influx of female talent was behind the push for better facilities.
‘‘Last year, we fielded an underage girls side for the first time. This year, we’ve got 25 girls across three teams, and 15 women.’’
Across all teams, participation is up 40 per cent this year.
Cole said the new pavilion and recent beautification works made the reserve a more welcoming place for a growing number of players and fans.
‘‘It just enhances the whole area and shows people we are going places.’’
Mayor Jennifer Anderson thanked the soccer club and residents for their patience during the major works.
‘‘The buildings and oval are looking great and provide a home for soccer players and clubs in the area, not to mention an active recreational space for all residents to enjoy.’’
