Two new state-of-the-art netball courts were opened at Woodend on Saturday.
And there was sustained applause from the large gathering at the opening ceremony when it was announced one court would be known as the ‘Kellie Duff Court’.
Described as the person who has been the driving force behind the $1.39 million project, Kellie Duff is a very well known long-time personality and coach at Woodend and regional level.
The name for the court was a very well-kept secret — even Kellie did not know it was to occur and was totally surprised.
Obtaining the two new courts is a very important project dating back more than six years, and district parliamentarian Mary-Anne Thomas was elated to see the day arrive when they could be finally used, as was everyone associated with Woodend-Hesket Football Netball Club, Woodend Junior Football Netball Club and other user groups at Gilbert Gordon Reserve.
Ms Thomas said the project sent a very strong message to girls and women that that they deserved excellent access to facilities.
The state government contribution through the local government infrastructure fund was $985,710, the shire council has contributed $310,000, there was a $40,000 in-kind contribution from court designers 2MH Consulting, and $55,500 came from the senior and junior football netball clubs.
Thanking the community for its support, the parliamentarian said she had been very proud to back the project.
“When state government and local government work together it will make things happen,” she said.
Mayor Dom Bonanno said it had been a “bit of a journey” and the complex project was a great outcome for the community.
He said the upgrade aligned with the strategic directions in the 2023-endorsed Gilbert Gordon Oval Master Plan, which identified the need for improved netball facilities to meet current and future demands, particularly for the multiple Woodend-based senior and junior netball teams.
“We’re proud to invest in facilities like this that create healthier, more active communities,” Cr Bonanno said.
Construction began in January this year, and with concrete and acrylic surfacing finalised in April.
Supporting infrastructure, including player shelters, court lighting, fencing and pedestrian pathways, were also part of the upgrade.
Anne-Louise Lindner, former WFNC president, has been closely involved on the whole journey.
She outlined on behalf of the senior and junior clubs much of what had taken place behind the scenes to reach finality, and praised all who had been involved.
“An incredible amount of time, effort and dedication has gone on,” she said.
In particular, she commended Kellie Duff for her outstanding dedication to achieve new courts.
WFNC co-president James Chettle also spoke, praising Anne-Louise and Kellie on their dedication to the project.
Netballers were thrilled to be able to use the new courts, and senior coach Ty Coppinger later praised the huge improvements.
The Hawks won their A-grade match 91-19 against Melton South, a record victory for Woodend-Hesket.
Some Riddell League clubs are likely to be very envious, and press for improvements in the future.
Joint ribbon cutting (from left): Mayor Dom Bonanno, Woodend-Hesket Football Netball Club co-presidents Paul Podbury and James Chettle, Kellie Duff, Mary-Anne Thomas MP, Anne-Louise Lindner. 
Thrilled with new courts: Anne-Louise Lindner, Kellie Duff and Mary-Anne Thomas MP.
