Bell Park celebrates new change facilities

PLAYERS, coaches, and supporters of Bell Park Sports Club can now enjoy state-of-the-art facilities at its Batesford venue.

City of Greater Geelong councillors, Member for Lara Ella George, and club president Rose Pirrottina officially opened the soccer club’s new $1.9 million change facilities.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said the facilities upgrade has created a more welcoming environment for female players.

“Soccer participation amongst women and girls is booming following the Matildas’ amazing run at last year’s World Cup, and it’s important we encourage this growth by providing our local clubs with the best possible facilities,” Mayor Sullivan said.

“The Council is really pleased to have supported this project with a major investment, and we’re thankful to the Victorian Government for its significant contribution.”

Jointly funded by the City of Greater Geelong ($1.7 million) and the Victorian Government ($250,000), the new change rooms replace the previous one, which no longer met the accepted standards.

The new rooms also feature change facilities for officials, a first aid room and storage spaces.

“The Allan Labor Government is leading the way when it comes to women in sport, ensuring that more women and girls have access to high quality facilities across Geelong’s north,” Ms George said.

“The new female friendly change rooms are a game changer for local football, so we can say goodbye to the days of women and girls changing in the back of the car.

“With women’s football more popular than ever, we’re ensuring local clubs like Bell Park Sports Club have the facilities they need to support the Matildas of the future.”

Bell Park’s home, located at the corner of the Midland Highway and Lynnburn Road, recently received a new $397,000 LED sports lighting upgrade last year.