By Esther Lauaki
The Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct could be a step closer with the state government making an election pledge of $5.6 million towards its first stage of development.
Premier Daniel Andrews last Friday announced the funding, which would get stage one of the precinct, the New Gisborne Regional Sports Field project, off the ground.
Macedon Ranges council’s sports precinct plan includes a new grass oval, a synthetic surface sports field accommodating football, soccer and cricket, a pavilion, new tennis and netball courts, outdoor gym equipment and play spaces, barbecues and a track for walking, cycling and running.
The planned precinct will spread across two connecting sites in New Gisborne at the corner of Barringo and Hamilton roads and will benefit communities from across the region.
Mr Andrews said that with participation rates in the region being above the state average for AFL and cricket, and a growing local population, the Macedon Ranges needed new facilities.
“Right now, local sporting spaces are chock-a-block, with Gardiner Reserve hosting 20 football teams and more than 30 cricket teams,” he told representatives from local sports clubs at New Gisborne last week.
“Growing up in country Victoria, I know how much local clubs matter. This investment is about making those local clubs and this community even stronger.”
Sports precinct advocate Helen Sankey said locals were excited about the funding news.
“It’s extremely important to us and the project to get this election promise,” she said.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said it was important that players and supporters had access to more sports facilities within the shire.
“Whether it’s watching the mighty Gisborne Bulldogs or a kick-to-kick on the weekend, I know how much this investment will mean to local families,” Ms Thomas said.
