Oval overhaul with federal funds

LINTON Recreation Reserve is one of a few facilities in the Shire set to receive a funding boost from the Federal Government.

An allocation of $750,000 from this month’s Federal budget will go towards upgrading the site’s oval playing surface, and drainage.

Secretary of the Carngham-Linton Football Netball Club Michael O’Beirne said the upgrades are essential for their group’s growth.

“The club’s as big as it’s ever been. We’ve got five football teams, then Auskick and three cricket sides,” he said.

“The oval’s used more now than it ever has been. That’s contributed to why we need the upgrade, because you’ve got more traffic using the ground.

“It’s a full upgrade for the oval. New drainage, irrigation and re-profile of the surface, new posting and goalposts, coach’s boxes… A full renovation.

“We’re pushing to get the new upgrade ready by [the start of the season] so we can play our first home matches here.”

Member for Ballarat Catherine King said the aim is to strengthen communities and deliver on promises.

“For me, these are about improving the liveability, being able to see recreation facilities improve, but really also it’s about community connectiveness,” she said.

“That’s been the investments that we’ve been making in regions right across the country. The opportunity of having a budget in October means we can start delivering on those election commitments early.”

Overall, the Federal budget includes $3.2 million for community projects within the Ballarat electorate, including Maude Pavilion works, and updated lighting at Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve.