By Oscar Parry
The Eric Boardman Stadium could receive a multi-million dollar makeover, including improved spectator facilities and new community learning spaces, following a bipartisan election promise.
The first pledge for $2.5 million towards upgrading the stadium was made by Hawke MP Sam Rae on Saturday, April 5, with Hawke Liberal candidate Simmone Cottom then announcing a $4 million pledge on Tuesday, April 8.
The funding would support stadium infrastructure upgrades, expanded office and meeting rooms, improved spectator and participant facilities, new technology, and community learning spaces.
Sunbury Basketball Association vice president Nathan Sellwood said other key improvements would include modernised toilet facilities, a new function room, a new canteen, and important improvements to the stadium’s main entryway.
The current canteen space would also be repurposed into a community venue and classroom.
Mr Sellwood said these improvements and addition of multipurpose spaces would “ultimately provide jobs for our local community.”
“Upgraded facilities will support increased participation across basketball and netball, create more opportunities for local programs, and ensure our growing community has access to a welcoming and accessible space for all,” he said.
He said the upgrades would improve the stadium for the “here and now,” with a long-term goal being a second stadium in Sunbury to meet increasing demand – which has spiked in the last 12–18 months.
“We currently utilise 15 courts for our domestic competition on a Saturday, with some games finishing up at eight o’clock at night – which is probably less than ideal,” Mr Sellwood said.
Mr Rae said the funding is aimed at “ensuring that our growing Sunbury community has access to modern, inclusive and safe sporting facilities“.
“The Sunbury Basketball Association does a fantastic job promoting a more social and active community, and I’m pleased that this investment will support the continued growth of their programs,” Mr Rae said.
Ms Cottom said the Liberal investment would ensure “local teams, spectators and other members of the community have the safe and modern facilities they need to train, compete, and thrive“.
“Many Sunbury locals have told me about the need to redevelop the Eric Boardman Stadium to ensure it remains a central hub for local sporting and community events,” Ms Cottom said.
“This project will help make the stadium’s facilities safer, more accessible, and better equipped to host a wide range of sporting events and activities. The stadium will be able to continue to support community activities and events, and the development of local talent.“
Mr Sellwood said that the next stage for the association is to finalise its strategic plan and work with Basketball Victoria, Hume, and other stadium user groups in the community to ensure the submission meets the objectives of a multipurpose sport venue and community space
