Multi-million dollar overhaul for Eastwood rec centre

A MULTI-million-dollar-upgrade of the Eastwood Leisure Complex is on the way.

The recreation facility has been awarded $8.53 million from the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program, and $9.01 million has been allocated by the City of Ballarat, so that it can be overhauled to better cater to the community.

The stadium will be retained and reclad but the other buildings will be demolished and replaced with new, purpose-built spaces including a sports, education and cultural hall, training rooms and reception.

“The Eastwood Leisure Complex has served the Ballarat community for almost 80 years and has done so in a combination of spaces which have struggled to meet the needs of the many user groups,” said Eastwood Leisure Complex committee chair Mark Valentine. “Despite the limitations of the rooms and halls user groups have flourished over the years.

“Around ten years ago the ELC Board recognised that site development was sorely needed and discussions commenced with the Ballarat City Council. Whilst always supportive, meaningful changes were always up against budgetary constraints.

“Now that the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Fund has contributed so handsomely to the project, existing and new user groups can look forward to modern purpose-built spaces ready to build community partnerships well into the latter part of the 21st century.”

User groups include the Ballarat Wildcats Basketball Club.

“The Eastwood Leisure Complex has been a vital hub for the Wildcats Basketball Club, providing a space for players and the community to connect and inspire through sport,” said Ballarat Wildcats Basketball Club president Garth Kydd.

“Despite its aging facilities, the Wildcats have thrived, exemplifying the resilience and passion of the club’s community.

“Now, thanks to the Federal Government’s Growing Greater Regions Fund and support from the City of Ballarat, these much-needed upgrades will create modern, purpose-built spaces that enhance the experience for Wildcats players and inspire future ballers.

“New facilities for the club, including a dedicated entrance, upgraded locker spaces, and modern changerooms, will bring a greater sense of professionalism while enhancing the lives of locals and ensuring basketball remains a thriving part of ELC community for generations to come.”

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, and the Member for Ballarat, Catherine King, announced the construction project on Wednesday.

“Whether it’s basketball, Irish dancing, school holiday care or U3A, so many locals have memories of Eastwood Leisure Complex,” she said.

“I can’t think of another place in Ballarat that accommodates so many diverse user groups, which means that so many people in our community will benefit from the transformation of Eastwood.

“It’s a place where people come together through sport, the arts, education and cultural activities; it’s a place that makes us more connected as community.

“Eastwood Leisure centre really deserves this upgrade and I’m thrilled that the Albanese Government is supporting City of Ballarat to get the job done for our city.”

Works are expected to be complete by the end of 2026.

The Eastwood Leisure Complex currently has more-than 1200 weekly users involved with more-than 100 clubs and organisations across the year.