Facilities pledge for Teesdale reserve

NEW facilities for the Teesdale Recreation Reserve have been promised, should Labor form government after November’s State Election.

The $1.5 million pledge was made by Member for Buninyong, and Labor candidate for the new electorate of Eureka, Michaela Settle, on Tuesday.

Funding will be aimed at constructing female-friendly changerooms and Ms Settle said the allocation has been driven by residents of Teesdale and surrounds.

“It’s obvious the community are very passionate about it. It really is a congratulations to [them],” she said.

“I’m really pleased that we can partner with the Shire and with all of [the community members] to make a really great space for the community next year.”

The funding is set to complement an upcoming masterplan for the Teesdale Recreation Reserve, which will go to council for approval during their regular meeting next week.

Teesdale Cricket Club committee member Peter Fisher said the additional support would go a long way.

“There’s definitely a demand. The facilities have eroded over time, and it definitely needs a proper upgrade to bring all the facilities up to standard,” he said.

“Each of the sports involved have minimum standards for the grounds and courts, so in order for us to present a safe space for families we have to be meeting those requirements.

“In terms of cricket, we have around 30 to 40 players and two senior teams. There’s also junior footy, tennis, and a hockey presence so this place does see a lot of use.”

Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Gavin Gamble said upgrades to the recreation reserve were listed as a top priority during a recent community meeting in Teesdale.