Flat out making White Flat safe and inviting

WHITE Flat Recreation Reserve, the new home of women’s football in Ballarat recently received $187,760 state government funding thanks to a grant from the Public Infrastructure Fund.

Member for Wendouree, Sharon Knight, said the money will be used for improvements to community safety at the reserve.

The City of Ballarat also contributed $5000 plus $18,000 of in-kind support.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Councillor Samantha McIntosh said the project, which includes new lighting, CCTV landscaping and improved signage will make White Flat a safer, more accessible and inviting place for everyone who uses the reserve.

“We know that if we provide safe and welcoming places for people to gather, to socialise and exercise they will be well-used – and the local community will reap the benefits,” Cr McIntosh said.

“It’s great that the State Government recognises this too and has provided funding to finance this upgrade at White Flat Reserve”.

White Flat is the home ground for East Point Dragons Female Football Club.

The club’s junior co-ordinator Kath Jones said the impact of the reserve’s funding on the club is one of safety and extra security.

Mrs Jones said the three female teams – one senior and two junior -train at night and hopefully next season will play night matches.

In a bid to offer a full female pathway to complete the club, it is currently recruiting under 18 players.

“The biggest thing for the club is that we will be enticing new players to join us [now the ground is more secure],” said Mrs Jones.