Opportunities for Victorians to boost their fitness in the scenic surrounds of the Macedon Ranges are ramping up thanks to four new fitness stations, one each in Kyneton, Woodend, Romsey and Gisborne, as well as new soccer pitch lighting at Barkly Square Reserve in Kyneton.
Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas today joined Macedon Ranges Shire Councillors to officially launch the new facilities, made possible by a more than $248,000 million investment from the Victorian Government.
Placed along the walking tracks at the Campaspe River Trail in Kyneton, Five Mile Creek in Woodend and Romsey, and Jacksons Creek in Gisborne, the four outdoor fitness stations provide locals and visitors alike with more opportunity to maximise the benefits of the great outdoors.
The equipment is built to handle the elements and features a number of exercise options for a range of fitness levels from the Sky Runner and Elliptical Trainer to the seated Pull-Down Challenge.
At Barkly Square, the bright new pitch lighting opens the door for local clubs including the 300-strong Kyneton Rangers District Soccer Club to extend training and host night competition.
The Victorian Government investment for both projects comes from the Community Sports Infrastructure Fund with $100,000 kicked in for the new lighting at Barkly Square and more than $148,000 for the fitness stations.
Since 2014, the Government has invested more than $1.05 billion in community sport and recreation infrastructure.
This includes a recent budget $110 million boost to the Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program as well as an extra $27 million to make sure our sports facilities are more accessible to more peopl From fitness station installation to new lighting, investments like these provide high-quality and accessible places for Victorians to reap the benefits of sport and active recreation participation.
They also create jobs, stimulate local economies, and help fast-track community recovery by improving the health, wellbeing, and social outcomes for Victorian communities.
Ms Thomas acknowledged the Kyneton Ranges District Soccer Club, Rotary Club of Kyneton, and Macedon Ranges Shire Council for their commitment and financial contributions to the projects.
For more information about infrastructure grant opportunities available through the Victorian Government visit www.sport.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"These new fitness stations in the Macedon Ranges add a whole new dimension to the popular outdoor trails in the district, opening up a new set of outdoor fitness opportunities for locals and visitors alike."
"For too long clubs like Kyneton Rangers have been hamstrung by outdated facilities. These new lights are a game changer, giving the club even more opportunity to take the local game to the next level."
"Better sport and recreation facilities make it easier for Victorians to get back to local sport and recreation when it is safe to do so and lead healthy and active lifestyles."