Anakie Reserve netball facilities set for major upgrade

ANAKIE Reserve is set for a significant expansion and upgrade of its netball facilities, with the federal and Victorian governments providing joint funding.

The project will introduce an additional netball court and include the installation of sports lighting, players’ shelters, and fencing, aiming to enhance the amenities for the Anakie Football and Netball Club.

Funded by a $312,867 contribution from the federal government, through phase 3 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program, and complemented by a $197,133 grant from the state government’s Country Football and Netball Fund, the total project budget is set at $510,000.

Lara MP Ella George said a second netball court at Anakie Reserve would mean even more netballers could get active and enjoy the sport they love.

“Upgrades like this go a long way in the tight-knit community of Anakie.

“We know how important local sport is in small communities – and that’s exactly why we are investing in local sporting facilities and clubs like the Anakie Roos.

“I am so excited to see works on the second netball court get underway.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Corio federal member Richard Marles said the upgrades were significant.

“The Albanese Government knows that sport plays a vital role in our communities, and is proud to partner with the Victorian State Government in helping to support the City of Greater Geelong to deliver much needed upgrades to the Anakie netball facilities, via the LRCI funding program.

“We’re looking forward to the exciting upcoming 2024 season and seeing the new facilities being put to good use.”

In 2023, the Anakie Recreation Reserve was upgraded with a $2.85 million redevelopment that introduced new social rooms and a multi-purpose facility.

The project was unveiled on August 3 by deputy mayor Anthony Aitken, Cr Sarah Hathway, and Anakie Football and Netball Club president Heath Menhennet.

Cr Aitken highlighted the ongoing enhancements at Anakie Recreation Reserve.

“The changerooms and social facilities have been transformed through major Council investments and with the help of this federal and state funding, we’ll now be able to deliver a netball upgrade,” he said.