Federal Coalition Government announces $15 million for sports precinct

Published on 10 April 2022

Council is delighted with the announcement by the Federal Coalition Government to fund $15 million for Stage 2 of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct (MRRSP) at New Gisborne. This funding will come on top of the $14.8 million committed by the current Victorian Government, and $10.9 million from Council, towards Stage 1 of the project.

Last week the Federal Labor Party pledged $15 million for Council’s number one advocacy project if they are elected to Government. Today’s announcement from the Federal Coalition Government ensures its delivery.

The MRRSP will encompass a 15-hectare regional park providing facilities for a range of sport and recreation activities. It will be delivered over two stages with Stage 1 consisting of a three-court Sports Hub, a natural turf oval and sports pavilion, passive recreation facilities, landscaping and associated infrastructure. Stage 2 will consist of three additional Sports Hub courts, a function room, additional car parking, a practise oval, outdoor multi-sport courts, additional Sports Pavilion amenities and further landscaping.

Works are set to commence on Stage 1 next month with completion scheduled for late 2023. Stage 2 remained contingent on further funding of $15 million from the Federal Government and a further $5 million from the Victorian Government, as well as Council’s own contribution to proceed.

Mayor Cr Jennifer Anderson said she was really excited by the funding announcement, as the new sports precinct is a key project for the shire and will provide much better access for community sports needs, as well as improved social connections and health outcomes for the growing Macedon Ranges community.

“This new multi-facility sports precinct will allow residents to come together for a range of healthy activities as well as catering for team sporting needs – to interact, develop and build community cohesion. We’re very excited about the funding announcement from the Federal Coalition Government to support this important second stage of such a significant project for our region”.

The facility is also capable of hosting competitions on a regional level, which will provide benefits to local businesses and have a flow on positive effect for tourism and employment across the shire.

CEO Bernie O’Sullivan said this is great news for the shire, as with the population expected to continue growing, current Council-managed stadium facilities are already at or nearing capacity for competition purposes.

“The new sports precinct is a big ticket item for our growing community and we have been advocating strongly alongside the community for the funding to see it through to completion. We thank the Victorian Government for their significant contribution towards Stage 1. We are extremely pleased that both major parties at a federal level have committed to this project, which will make it a reality,” he said.

Council will also continue its advocacy efforts this year for an additional $5 million from the Victorian Government required to complete Stage 2.