Zoe Moffatt
Construction of new netball facilities in Kyneton is planned to commence at the completion of this year’s netball season, following a decision by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
Last month, Kyneton Football Netball Club gained national attention for speaking out about its “sheep shed” changing facility, which the president said was possibly the worst netball facility in the country.
Progress on the upgrades to Kyneton Showgrounds, where the facilities are located, had been put on hold due to an objection lodged, but on April 18 Macedon Ranges council said this objection had been struck out by VCAT.
Council’s assets and operations director Shane Walden said implementation of the master plan will progress, following an objector application to VCAT late last year to review council’s decision regarding tree removal on the site.
“During the VCAT hearing held on April 5, it was determined … a permit was no longer required for the removal of the 10 non-native mature trees located where the new netball courts and facilities are proposed,” he said.
“Council takes tree removal decisions seriously and considered the independent arborist report that identified the 10 trees to be in various stages of declining tree health.
“At least six trees are at end of life posing serious risks such as branch failure and tree collapse, which could endanger property and public safety.”
Mr Walden said the trees will be replaced with new trees, and more trees will be planted as the overall master plan progresses.
“In the meantime, work on the detailed design for the new netball facilities continues, with input and guidance from key user groups.
“An updated design will be shared with Netball Victoria and key user groups in the coming weeks.”
Speaking previously about the issue, Rob Bakes, a spokesperson for the local residents who objected to the removal of the trees, said they support the long overdue building of decent, safe and healthy changing rooms.
“What we oppose is the unnecessary removal of the 10 mature trees to build those rooms,” he said.
