Better facilities for Mount Duneed

WITH Christmas just around the corner, I’m thrilled to share some fantastic news for Mount Duneed residents.

Last Tuesday we voted to adopt the Sovereign Drive Recreation Reserve Master Plan, paving the way for a new multisport field and pavilion and identifying land to be investigated for an off-leash dog park.

One of the most significant features of the plan is the multi-sport field, which will combine an Australian Rules football and cricket oval with two soccer pitches, in addition to the existing oval.

This design will maximise use, providing a huge boost in participation across multiple codes and allowing clubs to share the space for training and matches.

The plan also prioritises a new multi-use pavilion, a wider entry road and an expanded carpark to make the reserve more accessible and welcoming for all.

I look forward to seeing the pavilion become the home of new and emerging local sports clubs as the reserve develops.

But it won’t just house tenant clubs, it will also provide a space for community groups and activities to keep residents happy, healthy and connected.

And the most exciting part is that the City of Greater Geelong has $8.6 million in developer contributions funding to deliver these projects.

This means detailed design work will begin next year, with the City aiming to start construction in mid-2027.

As someone who spends a lot of time talking with residents and clubs, I know how much these projects mean to our rapidly growing suburb.

I also know just how popular the reserve’s existing oval is for Mount Duneed’s resident pooches and pals to stretch their legs and let loose, subject to sporting use.

As sport continues to grow at the reserve, playtime windows on the oval will become more limited.

A dedicated, fenced dog park would give residents a safe alternative – something both local sportspeople and dog owners would welcome.

So, the identification of land to investigate a fenced, off-leash dog park is an exciting inclusion, and one we made in response to community feedback.

The master plan outlines several other upgrades, including:

Relocating and upgrading the netball courts with Netball Victoria-compliant surfaces, lighting and benches

Expanding the Men’s Shedextending and improving internal shared pathways

Increasing the number of cricket nets from two to four, and fully enclosing them

Upgrading all sports lighting to LED.

These upgrades are a long-term investment to ensure local families, clubs and athletes will have even more opportunities to stay active and connected close to home.

We may need to stage these projects, based on available funding, and I look forward to working with City officers and our local MPs to secure the investment needed to fully deliver this masterplan.

It’s clear the community sees the same potential that we do – with 96 per cent of respondents supporting the master plan when we released the draft for public consultation in August.

With the festive season approaching, now is the perfect time to reflect on what a growing community needs and to celebrate progress that will benefit Mount Duneed for decades to come.

I’m proud to support this plan and delighted to see it moving forward.

I hope you all enjoy some much-deserved time off, stay safe and look after each other during the holiday period.

Merry Christmas and a happy new year!