Grant to resurface Kinglake oval

ON Tuesday, July 1, Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence visited Kinglake Memorial Reserve Oval to announce $875,000 for drainage and irrigation for the sports club, as well as new drought tolerant turf and a synthetic turf cricket wicket for local cricketers.

The grant is part of the state government’s Regional Community Support Infrastructure Fund.

Speaking at the event, Ms Spence said that in round two of the program, they were able to support 41 projects.

She commented that when an oval such as Kinglake’s is its current state, it’s not just difficult, it’s also dangerous, “So I’m really pleased that we’re able to provide that support and I know that you’ll make incredibly good use of it.”

She said that as a result of the budget, a further $20 million will become available later this year for community sport, and she suggested that council may have other projects which they’d like to co-invest in.

Ms Spence said that since 2014, over $3.4 billion has been invested in community sport infrastructure across the state, including over $23 million to Murrindindi Shire.

The aim of the fund is to improve participation rates, and noted the additional benefits which come from taking part in physical activity.

Mayor Damien Gallagher commented, “This is really a great outcome for our community.

This space here is the cornerstone and not only the Kinglake Range but also the broader community… We’re really grateful that you’re able to support us today throughout the regional…

Image: Treasurer of the Kinglake Junior Football Club Justin Bumstead, Kinglake Football Club Committee member Laura Caine, council CEO Livia Bonazzi, Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence, Mayor Damien Gallagher and president of the Kinglake Cricket Club Ken Aitken.