A bigger, better sporting precinct for macedon ranges

Families across the Macedon Ranges are a step closer to getting the great sporting facilities they need, with a re-elected Andrews Labor Government to deliver $5.6 million towards the first stage of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct.

In New Gisborne today, Premier Daniel Andrews joined with Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas and representatives from local sporting clubs to announce funds to kickstart the new development.

As part of the Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s Precinct plan, the work will see a new grass oval, a synthetic surface sports field accommodating football, soccer and cricket, a pavilion, new tennis and netball courts, outdoor gym equipment and play spaces, barbeques and a track for walking, cycling and running.

The new Sports Precinct will be accessible to local teams, with the Gisborne Bulldogs Football Netball Club, the Gisborne Rookies Junior Football and the Gisborne Dragons Cricket Club all set to benefit.

While the Federal Liberal Government has failed to guarantee funding for this important project, a re-elected Labor Government will work with Macedon Ranges Shire Council to deliver this vital development.

The Precinct will be spread across two connecting sites in New Gisborne at the corner of Barringo Road and Hamilton Road, but will benefit communities from across the region.

With participation rates above the state average for AFL and cricket – and a growing local population – families in Macedon Ranges need new facilities.

Right now, local sporting spaces are chock-a-block, with Gardiner Reserve hosting 20 football teams and more than 30 cricket teams.

Thanks to funding from a re-elected Labor Government, these local clubs – and this local community – will have the great sporting facilities they deserve.

The commitment builds on the Andrews Labor Government’s investments in community sport – the biggest in Victoria’s history – including more than $4 million to upgrade Macedon’s grassroots facilities.

Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
"We’ve made significant investments in community sport across the Macedon Ranges, but we know there’s more to do."

"Growing up in country Victoria, I know how much local clubs matter. This investment is about making those local clubs – and this local community – even stronger."

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"Whether it’s watching the mighty Gisborne Bulldogs or a kick to kick on the weekend, I know how much this investment will mean to local families."

"Locals don’t just have to leave town to play sports, they have to leave the Shire. We will change that."