The Allan Labor Government is delivering new and upgraded recreational and community sports facilities across Victoria, including more change rooms, courts, sports fields, pavilions, and skate parks.
Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh recently visited Hoddinott Reserve in East Bairnsdale alongside East Gippsland Shire Mayor Tom Crook – to inspect what is one of 40 new projects statewide that will benefit from the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund – giving more Victorians access to modern sports and recreation facilities.
The project at Hoddinott Reserve will mean new linking paths, soft landscaping, boulder play, a nature-based play area and structured play equipment to provide an accessible and inclusive community play space in East Bairnsdale.
The latest round of funding also includes $40,000 for the detailed design documentation for the redevelopment of West Bairnsdale Oval, which will benefit East Gippsland United FC who uses the venue.
The Victorian Budget 2024/25 is also investing more than $23 million to provide new and improved community sports infrastructure and initiatives that boost participation and inclusion in local sports clubs.
This investment includes $5 million to continue the 2024/25 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund which is part of more than $1.9 billion invested in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.
These investments are backed by the Fair Access Policy Roadmap - a Labor Government initiative ensuring women and girls get equal access to community sport facilities across the state.
Initiatives like these are also about inclusion, fair play, creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and improving the health, wellbeing, and social outcomes for Victorian communities.
For more information visit sport.vic.gov.au/grants-and-funding/our-grants/local-sports-infrastructure-fund.
Quote attributable to Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence
“We’re building new and upgraded sports facilities across the state so that all Victorians have access to high quality sport and recreation infrastructure in their local communities.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh
“I look forward to local kids and families being able to come down to the park to enjoy the great new equipment.”
“This is a project the community has passionately advocated for, and I congratulate all who have worked on making this a reality.”
Quotes attributable to Neighbourhood House Coordinator, Uniting Vic/Tas Lisa Lightowler
“Every community needs places where they’re able to come together to meet, connect, and spend time with their family and friends. Open spaces and reserves are not only important for physical health, but they’re great for stress relief which benefits our mental health.
“It’s been exciting to watch the transformation of Hoddinott Reserve and we look forward to it being an important part of our East Bairnsdale community for many years to come.”
