Active investments

GEELONG has a well-earned reputation for being mad about sport.

More than a quarter of residents are members of a sports club or group, with people supporting their favourite sports in a variety of ways.

But we are equally passionate about our recreation activities.

With the stunning coastline, open space, aquatic venues, recreation centres and skate parks we enjoy in Geelong, there’s no shortage of things to keep us busy.

In the last health survey Council conducted, 67 per cent of residents reported that they meet national guidelines for physical activity.

This was up from 41 per cent in 2017, and well above the Victorian average (53 per cent).

No doubt, our enviable lifestyle and natural attractions encourage people to get active.

Council plays its roles by providing the right type of facilities, in areas where they will be easily accessed by the community.

From a new aquatic and health centre in Drysdale to a new shared trail in Clifton Springs, there’s been some exciting developments on the Bellarine in recent months.

I’m really pleased that we can now add a new St Leonards Skate Park to that list.

Council manages 15 skate parks across Greater Geelong, with Waurn Ponds recently receiving a $1.94 million redevelopment.

Like that project, Council teamed with the Victorian Government to deliver a long-awaited new skate park and recreation hub in St Leonards.

Key features of the skate area include a mini-ramp, quarter pipes, flat banks, rails, and a manual pad

But the McLeod St facility provides more than just a space for skaters.

There’s a multi-sport court, accommodating basketball, netball, and futsal; a new shelter and seating areas, and free wi-fi among other digital services.

Overall, the $670,000 upgrade accommodates and encourages a range of healthy and social activities.

In Ocean Grove, plans are progressing for a new mountain bike facility.

Detailed design work is set to begin on the Kingston Park centre, following valuable input from the project’s Community Reference Group.

Issues addressed through the reference group included the size and space of the bike facility, the course design, safe pedestrian and cycling connections, traffic, and car parking.

The course will cater for all skill levels, ages, and abilities.

While we’re adding to the range of activities in Kington Park, we want to ensure that existing parkgoers aren’t substantially impacted.

The fully fenced ride centre would take up about half of the open grassed area, leaving space for dog walkers and other users to continue with their preferred activities.

There is no funding in place as yet, but completing the detailed design will ensure the project is shovel-ready and we can seek out government grants.

You can follow progress on the Ocean Grove District Ride Centre at yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/OGDRC

The Drysdale/Clifton Springs Pickleball Club began in November 2022.

Starting indoors at the local primary school with 12 players, they have rapidly expanded and now have about 190 members, making them the second largest pickleball club in the state.

It was wonderful to join the club this week for the official opening of their outdoor courts at the Clifton Springs Bowling Club.

Pickleball has exploded in popularity in countries such as the United States, and it’s now taken a hold here locally.

It adds to the varied health and recreation opportunities on the Bellarine, and is another reason why it is such a fantastic place to live.

Cr Trent Sullivan

Mayor, City of Greater Geelong