Willaura Recreation Reserve change room works underway

Ararat Rural City Council’s focus on making local sporting venues more female-friendly continues with Willaura Recreation Reserve the latest facility to undertake major work on its change rooms.

Home to the Moyston Willaura Football Netball Club, the reserve has a long history with community football, netball, cricket, tennis, bowls and social events.

Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said he was pleased that construction was now underway as it would deliver the modern facilities the community need.

“The Club has more than 70 netball players, but clubroom and change facilities were extremely tired and not fit for purpose for a modern and inclusive community facility,” Dr Harrison said.

“Our consultations with players and user groups helped Council put a plan in place to deliver a much-need upgrade to the clubroom building, with modernised change rooms, an expanded social room and a new bar.

“In addition, the project delvers a brand-new dedicated netball facility with female-friendly player and umpire change rooms and amenities.

“Project demolition of the internal walls are almost complete making way for the new fit out. The set out for the new building’s concrete slab is underway, with plumbing to be installed in the coming weeks.

“Once complete, the redevelopment more than doubles the existing provision of change facilities, with modern and inclusive spaces that support netball and the growth of AFLW.

“Council wants to continue supporting female participation in sport. Having an inclusive and comfortable recreation facilities at all levels of sport is essential.

“I’m glad to see we’re helping to level the playing field for women’s sport in our region.”

The $590,000 project has been supported with a $390,000 grant from the Victorian Government with the balance of the funding provided by Ararat Rural City Council and the Willaura Recreation Reserve committee.