Geelong’s home of sport under the spotlight

GEELONG’S biggest sporting precinct is under the microscope with council investigating how the region’s home of sport may be improved in future years.

The City of Greater Geelong has opened up feedback opportunities for the community to help formulate a new Master Plan for Kardinia Park.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said the development of the Kardinia Park Master Plan provides a unique opportunity to meet current and future needs of the community and sporting groups.

“We want to develop a shared vision for the park for decades to come,” Mayor Sullivan said.

“Whether you use the area for walking, community sport such as netball, swimming, football or cricket, or use the park to attend major events, we’d love to hear from you.”

With the support of the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust, the City is working with the park’s tenants to outline a series of recommendations and initiatives that will provide a blueprint for the precinct to last decades.

Kardinia Park spans more than 22 hectares in total with CoGG managing approximately 65 per cent of the land. The Kardinia Park Stadium Trust manages the other 35 per cent, including GMHBA Stadium, the home of the Geelong Cats.

The stadium currently attracts more than 400,000 people annually, soon to seat a capacity crowd of 40,000 spectators.

COGG stated the stadium will not be part of the new Master Plan, however, the surrounding areas will form its key components.

“The Master Plan will consider the planning for the South Geelong Urban Design Framework, the Waurn Ponds Rail duplication, and use of the park for the 2026 Commonwealth Games Closing Ceremony,” the city said in a statement.

Councillor Ron Nelson, Chair of the City’s sport portfolio, said the draft Master Plan will cater to keeping Kardinia Park an asset for all members of the community.

“Rather than an ad hoc approach, we want to make sure this wonderful reserve remains the City’s premier sport and recreation destination as well as an asset for the whole community,” Cr Nelson said.

“Kardinia Park has a long and proud history, so we want to hear feedback from as many people as possible.”

Community engagement closes on January 31, 2023.