Rec reserve oval open for all

A WELL-USED sporting and recreational hub in the shire’s south was officially reopened last week following a years-long overhaul.

The newly-revamped Don Wallace Recreation Reserve oval at Teesdale was unveiled on Monday last week, with Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Sarah Hayden and Member for Eureka Michaela Settle cutting the ribbon on the new grounds.

The overhaul features a realignment of the oval boundary, new fencing and concreting, as well as coaches’ boxes, goal posts, safety netting and an irrigation system.

Ms Hayden said an upgraded recreation reserve is important in catering for the region’s expanding population.

“As our community grows, we are committed to providing quality facilities for our residents,” she said.

“This upgrade is part of that commitment, and we’re delighted to provide our beloved sporting clubs with a safe and compliant playing surface, ready for both junior and senior footballers and cricketers.

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved through strong partnerships, and we deeply appreciate the State Government’s commitment to our community.”

At a cost of nearly $800,000, the project was jointly funded with $250,000 through the State Government’s Country Football and Netball Program, while the remaining $548,000 was provided by the municipality.

The initiative is part of a master plan adopted by the council in late 2022, with a focus also on constructing female-friendly changerooms.

That same year, Ms Settle pledged $1.5 million to help overhaul the site as part of an election promise, which was bolstered with additional funds from the Government and the Shire last year.

Ms Settle said sporting facilities are an integral hub for regional communities.

“Grassroots sport is the lifeblood of regional communities like Teesdale, they deserve modern facilities that we can be proud of,” she said.

“The new oval upgrades provide a real incentive for the Roos to ramp up training, development and to host the big games and for locals to join in the fun.

“Better sport and recreation facilities make it easier for Victorians to get involved and lead healthy and active lifestyles.”