BMRRR oval, cricket nets open

BACCHUS Marsh Racecourse and Recreation Reserve’s new Aussie rules football and cricket oval, and six-wicket cricket practice nets, were officially opened on Tuesday morning.

Members of user groups Bacchus Marsh Football Netball Club and Bacchus Marsh Cricket Club, the Member for Eureka Michaela Settle, and Moorabool Shire councillors were present for the opening.

“The clubs will now have access to a purpose-built space that supports their growth, players and their future,” said Moorabool Shire mayor Cr Paul Tatchell.

“The newly constructed cricket practice nets will also be a game-changer, allowing for more flexible training times and expanding capacity for our cricket and soccer community.

“This is a true example of smart, multi-purpose design serving the needs of multiple sporting codes.”

The nets and oval are part of stage two of the BMRRR master plan. The oval works also included the installation of perimeter fencing, player benches, and 100 lux LED lighting.

Bacchus Marsh Soccer Club will be able to use the site for winter training, and futsal can be played on site.

The State Government contributed $2.01 million to BMRRR from the 2020-21 Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program. The Moorabool Shire has chipped in $5.45 million.

For the cricket nets specifically, $300,000 came from the Sport and Recreation Victoria 2022 Local Sports Infrastructure Fund, $30,000 was contributed by Cricket Victoria’s Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund, and $262,500 was put in by council.

“Bacchus Marsh is one of Moorabool’s fastest growing towns,” Ms Settle said. “More than ever, quality sport and recreation facilities are essential to the health and wellbeing of all.

“The revamped reserve provides the modern facilities local clubs and residents need and can be proud of.

“There’s more opportunity for local clubs to grow their sports and the local community can join in the fun with a range of fun sport and recreation options to take part in their own backyard.”

An active sports and community hub building and an off-leash dog park are on the way.