Stead Park hockey upgrade to bring elite sport to Geelong

Stead Park in Corio is on track to become one of Victoria’s premier hockey hubs, with a major redevelopment now underway.

The multi-million-dollar project will deliver a new international-standard pitch and a two-storey pavilion designed to attract top-level competitions to the region while also benefiting the local community.

Member for Lara Ella George said the state government’s funding for the Stead Park and Torquay upgrades will create a legacy for generations of hockey players.

“We’ll have an incredible new pitch for national and international games and a pavilion that every hockey player in Geelong deserves,” she said.

“It will overlook both pitches and meet international standards, opening the door for elite competitions and growing the game here at home.”

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the redevelopment will position Stead Park as a top-tier sports destination.

“These will be the best hockey facilities in Victoria and the pinnacle for our sport in Geelong,” he said.

Hockey Geelong president Graeme Dent said the project will also help the club reconnect with the wider community after COVID-19 saw membership fall.

“We dropped from 1200 members to 650, but we’re back up to 870 and aiming for more,” he said.

“This upgrade will encourage people who’ve never played to give it a go. We’re a family-oriented sport that welcomes all ages and backgrounds.”

The new pavilion will feature modern change rooms, spectator seating, improved lighting, an electronic scoreboard and expanded parking. Works are expected to be completed late next year.

The redevelopment is funded by the Victorian Government through its Regional Sports Infrastructure Program.