FC Leopold to receive new million-dollar pavilion

LEOPOLD’S Estuary Reserve is set to get a $1.57 million dollar makeover to replace old facilities deemed “bursting at the seams.”

The new modular pavilion was confirmed by Council earlier this month in a bid to better support local sporting clubs.

The proposed facility will be home to FC Leopold with construction expected to finish in time for the 2022 soccer season.

Mayor Stephanie Asher says the decision will have further benefits for the Leopold community.

“The Council is investing heavily in facilities such as this because we recognise the importance of sporting participation to the community’s physical and mental health,” she said.

The reserve which acts as a secondary oval for the local football and cricket club, will receive a much-needed upgrade according to FC Leopold President Jared Larkins.

“Not having the appropriate facilities since our inception in 2016 has been challenging to say the least, but to see the pavilion project taking the next steps towards completion brings us a great deal of excitement,” he said.

Following a competitive tender process, KL Modular Systems were awarded the contract at a Council meeting earlier this month. The City funded building will include a modern and fully functioning design with a brand new social space and kitchen.

In compliance with Football Victoria’s standards, the new facility will also feature accessible gender-neutral changerooms.

“We look forward to seeing them deliver a high standard facility for FC Leopold that helps the club further grow its participation base,” Mayor Asher said.

Construction on the new facility is expected to commence in July next year and be completed by late 2021.

“As a club we are delighted to see the pavilion project progressing and extremely thankful for the support from the City of Greater Geelong, as well as our own members who have been tirelessly working behind the scenes,” Mr Larkins said.