Community scores with new recreation reserve

A major sporting precinct in regional Victoria’s Ararat is making a huge impact thanks to investment from all levels of government. 

The $4.7 million Gordon Street Recreation Reserve Redevelopment was officially opened today by Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Raff Ciccone, State Member for Ripon, Martha Haylett, and Mayor of Ararat Rural City, Cr Bob Sanders.

Made possible with over $1.8 million from the Australian Government, $2.5 million from the Victorian Government, and $315,000 from Ararat Rural City Council, the new facilities are already improving the local playing experience and boosting community engagement. 

Delivered over two stages, the first phase saw the construction of two soccer pitches, new female friendly changeroom facilities, a cricket oval, a multi-use space for Little Athletics as well as upgrades to landscaping. 

Stage 2 of the project was fully funded by the Australian Government, with the council receiving $1.4 million through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) Program.

This supported upgrades to lighting, fencing and drainage, the construction of new carpark spaces, team seating and Little Athletic facilities. 

These upgrades mean that Ararat now has state-of-the-art facilities that will cater for the significant growth in AFL and football within the region.   

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

“Regional communities deserve high-quality sporting facilities, which is why it’s fantastic to see the Gordon Street Recreation Reserve complete - one of the many projects we’re delivering in partnership with Ararat Rural City Council, as part of over $7.9 million in LRCI funding.

“Thanks to this project, Gordon Street will become regional Victoria’s home of AFLW – creating a centre of excellence, and supporting pathways for women and girls to pursue careers in league football.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Raff Ciccone:

“This new shared use pavilion, plus playing fields and surfaces, will unlock opportunities for AFL, soccer, cricket and Little Athletics.

“The local sports clubs were extensively consulted throughout the design process, and it’s exciting to see the community already making the most of the facilities. 

“The Albanese Government is proud to have worked in partnership with Ararat Rural City Council and the Victorian Government to deliver a project that will boost sports participation and community health in regional Victoria.”

Quotes attributable to State Member for Ripon, Martha Haylett MP:

“Our rural communities deserve world-class sporting facilities and we now have that at the Gordon Street Reserve. This is a huge win for our community and I cannot wait to see it in action for years to come.

“These brand-new facilities will make sport more inclusive for women and girls, and will bring more opportunities for major events too. I’m proud to be part of a government that helped get this done for Ararat.”

Quotes attributable to Ararat Rural City Mayor, Cr Bob Sanders:

“The completion of Gordon Street Reserve’s redevelopment is such an exciting occasion for our community. 

“This new facility will nurture sporting passions in our young people, provide pathways for careers in sport, and offer our residents a fantastic new space to come together for events. 

“We thank the Australian and Victorian governments for backing our vision.”