$299,000 bowled in for macedon ranges

The Macedon and Woodend cricket clubs are about to score new training facilities at their respective home grounds thanks to almost $300,000 from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Sport John Eren was in Woodend today to announce that both clubs had been successful in securing $149,000 from the Labor Government’s $180 million Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.

The new cricket practice nets will provide more than 300 boys, girls, men and women with a suitable training space at both venues.

Works include the demolition of the existing run-down practice nets and construction of three new synthetic grass cricket nets complete with fencing, netting and partial roof nets.

Mr Eren also announced a further $150,000 from the Community Sports Infrastructure Fund for the installation of outdoor fitness equipment along the Five Mile Creek trail at Woodend and Romsey as well as along Jacksons Creek in Gisborne and the Campaspe River Trail in Kyneton.

These projects are amongst more than 90 to score a boost from the flagship fund that recently received a $60 million boost in the Victorian Budget 2018/19.

The funding is part of the Labor Government’s strong commitment to sports and active recreation, and to encouraging all Victorians to get out there and get active.

Across Victoria we’ve invested more than $420 million in community sport and recreation facilities, and earlier this year provided almost half a billion dollars in the Victorian Budget to support sport and active recreation at all levels.

Mr Eren acknowledged cricket project partners Macedon Ranges Shire Council, Macedon Cricket Club, and Woodend Cricket Club and the outdoor equipment project partners Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the Campaspe River and Land Management Group.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren
"Growing numbers of boys and girls, men and women are signing up to play cricket at clubs like Macedon Cricket Club and the Woodend Cricket Club, however many are struggling with inadequate facilities."

"Designed for all levels of fitness, from starters to fanatics, the new fitness equipment will be a cost-effective way to get fit, and be active whilst enjoying some of the best scenery in Victoria."

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"Woodend and Macedon love their cricket, so these new training facilities will be welcome additions for the hundreds of eager cricketers at these clubs."

"Once complete all these new facilities will provide more opportunities for locals to get active and enjoy the sport and recreation activities they love."