Mininera and Willaura recreation reserves obtain upgrade grants

The Mininera and Willaura recreation reserves will get much-needed upgrades with two large grants awarded by the State Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund last week.

The Mininera Recreation Reserve has received $115,353 to install an automatic irrigation system and to resurface the oval, and Willaura has received $390,000 to upgrade its facilities.

Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison welcomed the announcement saying it was fantastic to see sporting facilities in rural areas receive such support.

Dr Harrison said recreation reserves were often the community and social hubs of small rural towns, and it was fantastic the government recognises their importance.

“Both towns are rapt with the grant announcements as it means upgrades and updates to their facilities that would not have been possible otherwise,” he said.

“Council is really grateful for the support and is looking forward to seeing the two projects completed.”

Labor Member for Western Victoria, Jaala Pulford, announced the two grants last week saying they are two of 100 projects to benefit from a share in more than $30 million.

Along with the irrigation system and surface upgrade, the Mininera Recreation Reserve project will also involve the installation of a water tank and electrical upgrade.

The upgrades at the Willaura Recreation Reserve include construction of new female-friendly change rooms and amenities and an upgrade to existing football (AFL) facilities to support future women and girls’ participation.

The new female-friendly amenities will give netball and AFL participants access to safe, modern and compliant facilities to further enhance participation and create an inclusive environment for women and girls. It will also provide participation opportunities for women returning to sport through social netball and “mums and bubs” activities.