A push for a major outdoor sports centre at New Gisborne is gaining momentum, with supporters hopeful that federal election commitments may come their way.
The $11.52 million project includes two football/cricket ovals and other infrastructure on land purchased by Macedon Ranges council in early 2015.
The project has been listed by the council as a priority ahead of the July 2 federal election.
New Gisborne Regional Sports Precinct spokeswoman Helen Gray said extensive strategic work is complete and the project, slated for a site near the recently opened netball complex on the corner of Barringo and Hamilton roads, is ‘‘ready to go’’.
The council and project group are seeking about $8 million from the next federal government to make the complex a reality.
‘‘What’s happened in the past few years is that, with population growth, participation has gone through the roof,’’ Ms Gray said.
‘‘Clubs are turning people away. It’s so important we make this happen so kids don’t miss out.’’
The proposed complex would include a drought-proof synthetic oval, allowing for three times more use than a grass surface, and the headquarters of the recently established Gisborne Giants junior football club.
Soccer, athletics, Auskick and cricket will also be included.
Ms Gray said talks with McEwen candidates Rob Mitchell (Labor) and Chris Jermyn (Liberal) were ongoing, and she urged the community to support a vigorous social media campaign.
‘‘The groundwork’s been done and the support is there,’’ she said. ‘‘With the regional aspect, it ticks all the boxes. We want to go forward now.’’
As reported by Star Weekly, a separate campaign for an indoor sports hub is also under way.
Residents are being urged to get behind the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Hub group’s campaign for a six-court stadium in a central location.
Basketball Victoria and Netball Victoria support the push for the new centre, which would include administration space, storage, catering and bar facilities.
