Tony Clarke Reserve has missed out on funding for changeroom upgrades in the Victorian Government’s 2026-27 Country Football and Netball Program.
The Macedon project is valued at $650,000 and would upgrade existing changerooms to meet current AFL community standards, ensuring they are inclusive and fit-for-purpose for all user groups.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council applied to the program in February, seeking $250,000 to support the upgrade but was advised last week it was unsuccessful.
Macedon Football Netball Club president Ron Rutledge said players were “grossly disappointed” the funding was rejected.
Mr Rutledge told the Express last month that the reserve’s facilities had “reached crisis point” and women had no dedicated changeroom facilities, despite a surge in female players.
Dominic Testoni, council’s director of assets and operations, said while the funding outcome was “disappointing” the council would continue to pursue external funding for the upgrade.
“Council remains fully committed to delivering the project and has already allocated $380,000 in its adopted 2026–27 Budget to help progress the upgrade,” he said.
“Council will submit a new application through the Victorian Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Program, which is currently open (until July 28).
“In addition, council will continue to monitor and assess other state and federal funding opportunities that may become available.”
Mr Testoni said the council was also investing in the future planning of the reserve, with funding included in the 2026–27 Budget for the development of a new Tony Clarke Reserve Master Plan.
“This work will help establish a shared long-term vision for the reserve and strengthen council’s ability to attract further investment to support future upgrades and improvements,” he said.
Council officers will be meeting with tenant clubs to plan next steps, including identifying priority improvements across the reserve and considering staged delivery options if required.
As part of these discussions, contingency options will also be explored should further funding applications not be successful.
This includes considering temporary solutions, such as portable changerooms, to ensure users have access to suitable facilities in the interim while longer-term upgrades are pursued.
Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas said the Country Football Netball Program was a popular and highly competitive program.
“Council is encouraged to seek feedback from Sport and Recreation Victoria to strengthen their application for future funding rounds,” she said.
Ms Thomas said she would continue her strong advocacy for local sports clubs in Macedon.