Hub for all headlines Stribling Reserve unveiling

THE doors of Lorne’s Stribling Reserve have officially opened, with sporting clubs, schools and community members able to come together at the new facilities
Community members attended the official opening of Stribling Reserve’s upgraded netball and community pavilions on April 14.

“The community has not compromised on the desired outcomes of the redevelopment and has demonstrated its commitment to the project by fundraising over $500,000, making this an invaluable gathering space in the heart of town, accessible to all,” Stribling Reserve Community Asset Committee chair Peter Spring said.

Stribling Reserve’s $6.6 million redevelopment project has been described as “the jewel in the crown of an innovative partnership between Lorne community members, the Australian Government and Surf Coast Shire council” with the reserve’s local importance evidenced by the community’s fundraising.

“Both pavilions are going to provide more opportunities for the community to participate in activities that bring people together,” Lorne Ward councillor Gary Allen said.

“From Lorne Football Netball Club players and supporters to the local men’s shed, to the neighbouring Lorne P-12 College staff and students – a range of people from our wider community are going to use this space for social connection.”

The project arose from the community’s request for a multipurpose social hub, which altered the original Stribling Reserve Masterplan.

“The community pavilion will accommodate up to 200 people for wide-ranging community activities including daily use by Lorne P-12 College during school hours,” Cr Allen said.

“Because of the design, the main space can be divided into three individual spaces, each with their own presentation facilities, offering flexible use by the community.”

Upgrades at the reserve also include oval and netball court resurfacings, added spectator booths, a newly installed electronic scoreboard, and upgraded light towers.