Council seeks funding for Spring Creek Reserve upgrade

THE Surf Coast Shire Council has endorsed an application for funding to upgrade facilities at Spring Creek Recreational Reserve after its December 10 meeting.

The council will submit an application to the Australian Football Facilities Fund (AFFF) to support the female-friendly improvements.

A successful application would secure a $75,000 grant for the Spring Creek Reserve Female Friendly Change Facilities Project, which aims to provide gender-neutral shower and toilet cubicles to better accommodate female and junior sports participants.

The project has so far received $700,000 from the Australian Government, with the council previously seeking an additional $1 million from the Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.

Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said the investment will ensure the Tigers have the facilities they need to meet rising participation in women’s sport.

“As Torquay continues to grow, so too does the interest in sport among women and girls,” Ms Coker said.

“This is an investment in better opportunities for all, supporting both the future of local sport and the health of our communities.”

At the meeting, councillors unanimously supported the move, noting the importance of enhancing facilities to meet the needs of the growing sporting community.

Former councillor Rose Hodge, speaking last year about the project, said it was a vital step in meeting the growing needs of the community.

“Providing change facilities that can easily accommodate our female football and cricket players at Spring Creek Reserve is a must for our growing town,” she said at the time.

The council has indicated that the upgrades will help promote greater inclusivity and participation in local sport.

A successful grant would raise the project budget to $775,000.