Board a game-changer at Learmonth

IT’S much easier to keep up with the action at Learmonth Recreation Reserve following the installation of a new electronic scoreboard.

The large $100,000 screen was brought about by a team effort, said Learmonth Football Netball Club life member Paul Ryan, on behalf of president, Stephen Griffin.

The State Government allocated $60,000 from the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund, Learmonth FNC raised $40,000, while the City of Ballarat contributed $4000 and delivered the works.

“It’s absolutely magnificent,” Mr Ryan said. “We’re very proud to have it.

“We’re really looking forward to the redevelopment of the oval and lighting to come.”

Learmonth FNC life member Neil Bourke said spectators are used to asking, ‘what’s the score?’

“We won’t be hearing that anymore, because now we can see it,” he said.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the scoreboard is another game-changer for the facility, which got new netball courts in 2023.

“It helps ramp up excitement at local fixtures and adds a whole new dimension to grassroots sport,” she said.

“It also provides the local community with a valuable way to promote local initiatives and keep up to speed with what’s going on in and around the community.

“The amount of money the club has been able to put into this project is huge and deserves a round of applause.

“A few other clubs just had their scoreboards installed and are planning some movie nights with theirs, so that could be a good idea at Learmonth too once the weather gets a bit warmer.”

Learmonth Pony Club is also expected to get use out of the new screen.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson said up-to-date sports infrastructure attracts people to play sport.

“Great sporting and recreation facilities help build stronger, healthier and happier communities, that’s why as a council we continue to invest in sporting facilities,” he said.

“We are proud to work with the State Government to bring another great project to life in Learmonth.”