Kyneton High School Council is calling on candidates for Macedon at the November state election to commit to upgrading the school’s soccer pitch and improving security for students and staff.
The school council is seeking $2 million for a competition-grade soccer and football pitch with improved drainage, and $1 million for perimeter fencing, upgraded CCTV, signage and landscaping.
School council vice-president, Luke Wilson, said the projects would support student safety and wellbeing while making the grounds more accessible for community sport.
“Our students deserve a safe, reliable playing surface where they can enjoy sport, develop their skills and stay active,” Wilson said.
“The soccer pitch has poor drainage and its condition limits how much it can be used by not just our students but also local sporting clubs”.
“An upgraded pitch would give our students more opportunities to participate in sport and provide a valuable facility for the wider community throughout the year.”
Advocacy to repair the oval was enabled by the school’s focus on student voice. A VCE Vocational Major student addressed the school council about the playing surface, with council agreeing to support students’ efforts to secure an upgrade.
“Our students are speaking up about something that matters to their everyday school experience. We want candidates to hear their concerns and help deliver a lasting solution,” said school council president, Lisa Ohlmus.
The council has also identified the need for improved fencing around the school’s perimeter. The proposed works include 2.1-metre perimeter fencing, upgraded CCTV and clearer signage to support safer, controlled access.
“We want our school to be a welcoming place for families and the community, with appropriate safeguards for students and staff during the school day, while enabling controlled access to the broader community after hours,” Ms Ohlmus said.
The pitch and security upgrades form part of a broader $9 million investment proposal, which also includes a multipurpose facility for school and community use. The school cannot deliver these projects without state government support.
“This is an opportunity to invest in our growing school and deliver benefits that extend well beyond the school gates,” Ms Ohlmus said.
