Coker ups FNC pledge

INCUMBENT ALP candidate and member for the Federal seat of Corangamite, Libby Coker, has increased an election pledge at Bannockburn Football Netball Club.

Ms Coker recently visited the club and pitched $350,000 for upgrades to female changerooms, only to see rival Liberal candidate Stephanie Asher turn up less than 24 hours later and trump the offer with $690,000.

Now, in a statement released last week, Ms Coker has matched the larger amount.

“Bannockburn FNC have some real challenges and they need upgrades in the main AFL/ cricket changeroom, and the netball change facilities, so I am backing in an upgraded commitment,” Ms Coker said.

“We have to recognise there is strong ongoing growth in young families coming to Bannockburn and on top of that a surge in women and girls playing AFL, netball and cricket.

“It’s great to see these sporting opportunities opening up for women and girls and we have to support that with modern facilities girls and women feel comfortable with.

“I’ve had to advocate very strongly for an upgraded commitment and we have now got that additional funding.”

The increased offer to the voters of Bannockburn means regardless of which party forms government after May’s election, Victoria Park is getting Federal money for upgrades.

However, that doesn’t guarantee the work will take place.

Plans to upgrade the women’s changerooms at Victoria Park are a project of Golden Plains Shire, and municipal officers have put a $1.4 million price tag on the works.

In a statement at the time of Ms Coker’s $350,000 promise, a Shire spokesperson acknowledged the overall funding shortfall.

“Council will continue to lobby State and Federal Governments for funding to deliver the new netball pavilion including female friendly change rooms at Victoria Park, Bannockburn,” a statement on the Shire’s website said.

“This $1.4 million priority project will support current and future participation at the growing netball club, with the proposed facility including a social indoor space, public toilets, team and umpire change rooms, first aid and office areas.”