By Esther Lauaki
A regional sports precinct in the Macedon Ranges is a step closer thanks to a $6 million election pledge by the Labor Party.
The state government has promised, if re-elected, to fund the indoor courts component of the $42 million Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct in New Gisborne.
The announcement on Friday came after a $5.6 million commitment in August towards the precinct’s outdoor facilities, including new sports fields, new tennis and netball courts and outside play spaces.
The state government is promising $6 million will be spent on four indoor courts, including a show court and spectator seating, changerooms, multi-purpose rooms and other amenities to be integrated with the existing Macedon Ranges netball complex.
The business plan for the multi-purpose indoor sports facility was launched last month after the completion of the project’s feasibility study.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said she was pleased to announce the new funding, which comes after a long-running community campaign.
“The precinct has been a long time coming for locals and I’m proud to help deliver it,” Ms Thomas said.
“This is more than just an investment in new courts – this is a real investment in local clubs and our local
community.”
Sports Minister John Eren said that the investment would mean Macedon Ranges sports clubs would have “the facilities they deserve”.
The Greens candidate for Northern Victoria, Riddells Creek resident Nicole Rowan, has welcomed the funding pledge.
“The community has spoken as one voice in their support for this regional facility,” Ms Rowan said.
“The Macedon Ranges sports community has demonstrated the clear demand for new indoor community and sports facilities and I am absolutely thrilled that they have been rewarded for all of their hard work.”
Sports precinct advocate Helen Sankey said that with current indoor sports facilities already chock full, the Macedon Ranges was in dire need of more local courts.
“People don’t just have to leave their towns – they have to leave the shire to be able to access the indoor space that they need,” Ms Sankey told
Star Weekly earlier this year.
“That’s not just for basketball, that’s for all indoor sports.
“Football ovals are desperately needed in our region, as well.
“We’re seeing thousands of users every week and … facilities at capacity.”
The Liberal Party on Monday announced it would contribute $15 million to the precinct if they are elected. For more on the Liberals announcement check out next week’s Star Weekly.
