A brighter future in Queenscliff

SPORTS lighting upgrades at the Queenscliff Recreation Reserve have been completed, paving the way for new opportunities for the local community.

Members and sponsors of the Queenscliff Football Netball Club, which calls the reserve home, came together on Monday last week with Corangamite Labor federal member Libby Coker and Borough of Queenscliffe mayor Ross Ebbels, to formally flick the switch on the new light towers.

The Coutas marked the occasion with a sausage sizzle and a kick under the new lights, while club members viewing the display from Point Lonsdale sent through photos to those at the ground.

The LED lighting was funded by the Albanese Government, with $160,000 committed to the project before the 2022 federal election.

QFNC president Ali Waight thanked Ms Coker, the federal government, the borough and all of the club’s project contributors who helped make the upgrades happen.

“We are thrilled to see the culmination of this project which not only enhances our facilities but will help grow our football program with better training conditions and night games,” she said.

“These new lights symbolise an even brighter future for our club, allowing us to host more events and engage with our members like never before.”

Ms Coker said the upgraded lighting was a “game-changer” and would open the ground to more community use including casual play and local events.

“It is a fantastic day for the Coutas and its many members,” she said.

“I’m so proud to have delivered this commitment alongside the club and council – the community of Queenscliff can now use the footy ground day and night.

“The Queenscliff Football Netball Club has been around for close to 140 years – it’s a cornerstone of the community – and I’m so proud that we’ve delivered these lighting upgrades which will make a significant difference for the Coutas and the wider community for many years to come.”

She congratulated the club, local community and the borough for its work in delivering the project.

Cr Ebbels said the lights were a fantastic addition to the major redevelopment of the QFNC facilities over recent years.

“The upgraded lighting makes way for safer and improved experiences for players and spectators alike,” he said.

“Council is delighted to have contributed to the project, one that will benefit the Coutas and the community for many years yet.”

Ms Waight said the QFNC was now planning a Friday night Couta Legends match of over 40s against another Bellarine Football Netball League side towards the end of the season, with dining options to be provided by chef and borough councillor Donnie Grigau.

“We have already had BoQ CEO Martin Gill give the nod that he will dust off his boots for the Coutas, so keep an eye out in the coming weeks for the match date.

“It’ll be one not to miss.”