Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve receives new lights

UPGRADES at Smythesdale’s Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve were officially launched on Tuesday afternoon.

Golden Plains Shire councillor Emma Robbins met Member for Ballarat and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King to officially open new lighting at the site.

Ms King promised the upgrades as part of an election commitment in mid-2022, with $550,000 being put into the project as part of the Federal Government’s Investing in Our Communities program.

She said it is important regional sport continues to be supported.

“The completion of the Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve lighting upgrade marks another election commitment delivered for our community,” she said.

“Sport is incredibly important for community engagement, wellbeing and social cohesion. It’s on the courts and fields that kids learn teamwork and how to relate to each other and get along.

“Investing in local sports facilities, like this $550,000 investment into the Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve, means even more people get to play, and cheer on family and friends, closer to home.”

Other funding commitments earmarked in the election promise included $750,000 for the Linton Recreation Reserve redevelopment, and $350,000 for the Maude Pavilion upgrade.

The Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve project overhauled the site’s oval and court lighting with an LED system aimed at increasing safety and usability.

Cr Robbins said the upgrade is a win for the community and the groups that use the space.

“Council is proud to have worked with the Federal Government and our community stakeholders to make this project a reality,” she said.

“In particular, the Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and the Woady Yaloak Junior Netball Club who have gone from strength to strength in recent years.

“This lighting will enhance usability and safety at Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve while promoting physical activity and sporting competitions.”