Racing to benefit rec reserve

THE Ballan Recreation Reserve redevelopment project is set to receive a funding boost from an annual regional horse race.

The Community Bank Ballan and District Ballan Cup Day 2022 is set to take place at the Geelong Racing Club on Saturday, 5 November with profits from the event going towards works at the reserve.

Ballan Jockey Club manager Jade Augustine said it’s the ideal community project to back.

“The committee decided to support the rec reserve and facilities because it just supports so many Ballan residents, and the fact it’s able to reach so much of the community,” she said.

The redevelopment is being delivered with $3 million from the State Government, $40,000 from Ballan Recreation Reserve Committee, $50,000 from Community Bank Ballan and District, and $860,000 from the Moorabool Shire.

New additions will include changerooms for umpires and female players, a social pavilion, storage sheds and improved accessibility. The overhaul is expected to be finished early next year.

Ms Augustine said the staff at Community Bank Ballan are great to partner with.

“They’ve been a long-time partner of ours and continue to support the club so generously,” she said.

“I would estimate about $10,000 will go towards the upgrades but it depends on how successful the day is.

“I suppose we’re calling on residents to come to the Ballan Cup so we can raise as much as possible.”