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Funding sought for recreation projects

Council to fund to redevelop and improve cricket training facilities.

By news@gippsland - 22nd February 2021 - Back to News

Bass Coast Shire Council will apply for around $3.5 million in grant funding from the State Government. If successful, will deliver eight priority recreation projects. Council has applied to the Sport and Recreation Victoria Cricket Facilities Fund for a $100,000 grant with Council and Club funding and in kind contributions to deliver a complete redevelopment of the cricket training facilities at Thompson Reserve in Inverloch.

Should the funding be secured for the Inverloch Stingrays Cricket Club and the Inverloch Stars Soccer Club, these facilities will be developed to meet Cricket Victoria standards and will be multipurpose, creating opportunities for other uses and great improvement, This project is expected to cost $270,000 to complete.

Sport and Recreation Victoria’s World Game Facilities Fund

Sport and Recreation Victoria’s World Game Facilities Fund has been identified by Council to assist in the delivery of a significant change room and toilet/shower upgrade for the following:

• Newhaven Reserve Soccer Pavilion
• Phillip Island Breakers Soccer Club
• other local sporting clubs and schools

The upgrade will meet guidelines and ensure privacy, security and accessibility for all user groups. If the funding application is successful, the $600,000 project will be co-funded by the $400,000 grant and $200,000 from Council’s Asset Renewal Program.

Community Sport and Infrastructure Stimulus Program

Council will also apply to Sport and Recreation Victoria, through the Community Sport and Infrastructure Stimulus Program, for two important projects – the 2021 Sports Pavilion Project and the 2021 Field Lighting Project. The 2021 Sports Pavilion Project continues the significant work of Council to renew and redevelop key recreational pavilions across the Shire.

This project would see the development of new pavilions for the following:

• Phillip Island Croquet Clubs
• Wonthaggi Croquet Clubs
• Wonthaggi Tennis Club

Of the $2.1 million project, Council will apply for $1.9 million from the Program.

If the application is successful, Council will commit $124,500 in the 2021/22 budget to complete the projects, with the remaining $85,000 being provided by the Clubs. The 2021 Flood Lighting Project would see new training and competition standard lighting installed at:

• Cowes Recreation Reserves
• Inverloch Recreation Reserves
• Dalyston Recreation Reserves

Council will apply for $1.1 million for this $1.2 million project. If the application is successful, Council will commit $45,000 to the project, with the remaining $75,000 being provided by the respective clubs.

Recreation projects prioritised

Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari said Council has worked hard to prioritise recreation projects over recent years and that he can’t wait to see these projects realised.

"We understand the competitive nature of these grants and maybe we won’t get them all through, but I believe we have prepared each of these critical projects to a very high standard and we are in a very good position for success. This is another great demonstration of Council’s commitment to deliver key infrastructure for our community, as well as a fine example of how Council, when working closely with the community can achieve more."

For more information on any of these projects, contact Council’s Recreation and Culture Team on 1300 BCOAST (226 278) or (03) 5671 2211 or email