Macedon Ranges Shire Council has applauded the awarding of $15 million in funding from the Federal Government towards Stage 2 of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct (MRRSP) at New Gisborne.
This funding will top up $14.8 million committed by the Victorian Government and $10.9 million from Council, towards Stage 1 of the project.
The MRRSP will encompass a 15-hectare regional park providing facilities for a range of sport and recreation activities. It will be delivered over two stages with Stage 1 consisting of a three-court Sports Hub, a natural turf oval and sports pavilion, passive recreation facilities, landscaping and associated infrastructure. Stage 2 will consist of three additional Sports Hub courts, a function room, additional car parking, a practise oval, outdoor multi-sport courts, additional Sports Pavilion amenities and further landscaping.
Mayor, Jennifer Anderson said she was excited by the funding announcement, saying the new sports precinct was a key project for the shire and will provide better access for community sports needs, as well as improved social connections and health outcomes for the growing Macedon Ranges community.
“This new multi-facility sports precinct will allow residents to come together for a range of healthy activities as well as catering for team sporting needs – to interact, develop and build community cohesion,” the Mayor said.
“We’re very excited about the funding announcement from the Federal Coalition Government to support this important second stage of such a significant project for our region.”
Works are set to commence on Stage 1 next month with completion scheduled for late 2023.
The facility will also be capable of hosting competitions on a regional level, which will provide benefits to local businesses and have a flow on positive effect for tourism and employment across the shire, Council said in a statement.
Council CEO, Bernie O’Sullivan said the funding was great news, with current Council-managed stadium facilities already at or nearing capacity for competition purposes.
“The new sports precinct is a big ticket item for our growing community and we have been advocating strongly alongside the community for the funding to see it through to completion,” he said.
“We thank the Victorian Government for their significant contribution towards Stage 1. We are extremely pleased that both major parties at a federal level have committed to this project, which will make it a reality.”
He said Council will also continue its advocacy efforts this year for an additional $5 million from the Victorian Government required to complete Stage 2.
