Stage two of the Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct has commenced with the awarding of two contracts to deliver additional indoor and outdoor facilities.
The start of works was marked with a sod-turning ceremony attended by McEwen MP Rob Mitchell, Macedon Ranges acting mayor Kate Kendall and other councillors to celebrate the milestone.
Stage two will deliver significant upgrades, including three new multi‐use indoor courts, four gender‐neutral change rooms, additional car parking, a dedicated drop-off zone, and extra offices and amenities on the western sports hub site.
On the eastern sports field site, a second natural turf oval will be constructed north of the existing oval and pavilion, along with two outdoor netball courts and additional car parking.
“Stage two will significantly increase capacity and flexibility at the precinct, providing modern, comprehensive facilities for sports and community events across the shire,” Cr Kendall said.
“It’s exciting to now have shovels in the ground for this next stage of works, and we look forward to seeing the new facilities take shape from here.”
Contractors have been appointed for both sites, with ACE Infrastructure commencing works on the oval site and Harris HMC appointed for the new indoor stadium.
Council said this strategic contractor split helps to share the substantial and specialised works required for each site.
Stage two is budgeted at $17 million, funded by $15 million through the federal government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program and $2 million from council.
“From the community’s standpoint, this sod turn is a monumental milestone for the vision to build this regional precinct. With stage one delivered by council and the state government, it has already proven itself an overwhelming success,” Mr Mitchell said.
“I have been a long-time supporter of this project which has been driven by the community to meet our growing needs. That is why I have always shown my backing for stage two and was proud to deliver our commitment of $15 million to the precinct.”
Once complete, the precinct will cater for AFL, cricket, basketball, netball, badminton, volleyball, futsal and other sports, while also providing hireable space for social and corporate events, supporting community connection, health and wellbeing.
Residents should be aware of staged construction, parking adjustments, and temporary traffic changes, with council and contractors working to minimise disruption. Community groups, clubs, and schools are encouraged to stay engaged as the new facilities are expected to open in late 2026.
