Stadium on track to open in January

THE Surf Coast Multi-Purpose Indoor Stadium now under construction in Torquay North is on track to open in the first month of next year.

The $13.5 million build is the Surf Coast Shire council’s largest infrastructure project, and will be known as the Wurdi Baierr Stadium (Wadawurrung for “‘big gathering place”).

The project will see three multi-use courts added next to the existing single-court stadium at Surf Coast Secondary College, as well as a café, meeting rooms, change facilities, all abilities design features, and additional car parking.

Ballarat-based developer Nicholson Construction began construction at the site in late 2019, with the intention of completing the stadium by the end of 2020.

Last week, the shire’s general manager of culture and community Chris Pike said work at the stadium had progressed well despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, and it was still on schedule for completion by the end of the year.

He said the stadium’s first day of operation would be in January, but the exact date was to be confirmed.

“Works are now at the stage of fit-out and finishes. The floor and wall coverings are being completed, along with painting.

“Plumbing and electrical fit-out is under way in all areas, joinery works are underway in the change rooms, meeting rooms and offices, and the three new courts are being sealed and line-marked.

“Landscaping is also under way.

“We look forward to the stadium being a wonderful asset for users of all abilities.

“This $13.5 million project was made possible by allocations of $5 million from the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund, $3 million from the Victorian Government’s Better Indoor Stadiums Fund, $2.9 million in developer contributions and $2.6 million from Council.”