Big facelift for park planned

EWING Park’s transformation from oval to community recreation hub has been accelerated following the announcement of State Government funding.

An injection of $2.89 million will result in a new learn to ride bicycle track, cycling trailhead, multipurpose shelter, and skate park.

Public toilets, more parking, drinking stations and bike maintenance stations will also be built as part of stage two of the redevelopment.

Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan said the funding comes from the State Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program and Ewing Park is one of 42 spaces receiving money.

“It’s one of a number of projects that are being supported around the state and it’s about providing better sporting facilities for all people of all ages, all abilities, encouraging people to stay fit and active and engage with their local community,” she said.

Stage one of the redevelopment involved the new LED training lights and a 430-metre synthetic running track around the oval.

One man who pushed hard for the new facilities is United Cricket Club president Shane Hartly, who said the project will result in Ewing Park being a unique space in the area.

“We’ve always felt that Ewing Park has been overlooked for many years, it’s sort of tucked away but it’s so central to Bendigo and it’s in an area that offers so much for the local community,” he said.

“The new additions will bring more people to the area and there’s a chance for more people to be involved with the cricket club and the others sporting clubs in the precinct.”