The multi-million dollar Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct has been boosted by a guaranteed $3.2M from the state government.
“This is a project of state-wide significance, one that can hold state-wide and national events,” district MP Mary-Anne Thomas stated on Friday on site at New Gisborne.
The $3.2M via the Growing Suburbs Fund will help deliver the first stage of the precinct, including gardens, a wetland, outdoor gym, barbecue areas, play space and a walking, cycling and fitness track.
The $41M project previously received $11.6 million from the state government towards an indoor sports arena, new turf and synthetic sports fields, tennis and netball courts.
Addressing the gathering of council representatives, parents and young sportspeople from various local clubs, Ms Thomas said she was “fed-up” with the lack of a long-awaited Commonwealth financial commitment, and intended to write to federal sports minister Senator Richard Colbeck to encourage this.
“It needs support from all levels of government,” the MP said.
Council’s director of assets and operations Shane Walden said it was good to see so many present at short notice, as this reflected how popular the major project was. Some have been involved since its inception several years ago.
Local Government Minister Shaun Leane said he was pleased the $3.2M was the first ever Growing Suburbs allocation in Macedon Ranges, and he couldn’t wait to see the sports precinct open for everyone to enjoy.
