Coalition promises $1 million for City Oval upgrade

REDAN Football Netball Club has welcomed a Liberal Party election pledge of $1 million to upgrade Ballarat’s historic City Oval if they form Federal government on 3 May.

The commitment was announced by the Liberal candidate for Ballarat Paula Doran last week, with the proposed funding targeting the grandstand and changerooms.

RFNC president Claire Edwards hailed the proposed upgrade as overdue.

“Our facilities have been out of date for a long period of time and it actually means we will start to be on a level playing field with other clubs in the area,” she said.

“Changerooms are really important, particularly in Ballarat, with the colder weather.

“It will provide appropriate facilities for our footballers across the board, which we really appreciate.”

Ms Doran said the funding commitment would ensure local sporting groups could enjoy improved facilities.

“I’ve had strong feedback from the local community about the need for this upgrade to provide accessible and AFL-compliant female changing facilities and enhance the overall experience for players and spectators,” Ms Doran said.

“The City Oval is such a special place and while unique in its place in the city’s history, we need to ensure that the facilities are at their best for all users.

“This project will encourage greater participation in sports, particularly among girls and women, and preserve the heritage of the grandstand.”

The announcement capped an exciting week for the Redan Football Netball Club, on a high following former junior footballer Jonty Faull’s AFL debut for Richmond against Fremantle during Gather Round in South Australia.

Taken with Richmond’s fourth selection in the 2024 national draft at pick 14, Faull collected six possessions and two marks in the Tigers’ 61 point loss to the Dockers.