Third pitch to go in at Banyul-Warri Fields

IT IS game on for soccer fans in the Surf Coast, with the Surf Coast Shire getting a $100,000 state government grant towards a third pitch in Torquay North.

Last week, Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney announced the Surf Coast Shire was among the recipients of the latest round of the state government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.

The funding – paired with $621,000 from the shire – will enable the council to deliver the Banyul-Warri Fields Yurrock soccer pitch and lighting upgrade project.

As well as a third pitch, the project will include the installation of a drainage system, warm season turf/grass coverage, standard player shelters, fully enclosed black chain mesh fencing with high areas behind both goal ends, two standard soccer goals and netting, plus 100 lux sports lighting.

The upgrade will support the expanding growth in both male and female soccer and enable maximum use by local and regional soccer clubs, and alleviate scheduling conflicts to also give hockey teams a space to train.

Surf Coast FC president Steve Christou and Galaxy United FC president Rob Lehmann welcomed news of the third pitch for their Torquay-based teams.

“We’re working hard to give more locals the opportunity to play the sports they love, and embrace a more active and healthy lifestyle,” Ms Tierney said.

“This boost will go a long way towards helping cater for the growing number of people keen to get involved in sports right here in Torquay, as well as the broader Geelong and Surf Coast region.

“This funding reflects the Andrew Labor Government’s commitment to building strong, active and healthy communities by helping to provide high quality, accessible community sport and active recreation facilities across Victoria.”

The state government is also providing footy and netball clubs with another chance to secure funding to upgrade or replace grounds, courts and pavilions, and welcome more members than ever before.

Ms Tierney urged all local governments and clubs to apply for the grants of up to $100,000.

Applications for the Country Football and Netball Program are now open and close on April 12. Head to sport.vic.gov.au.