Pavilion delays cause frustration

By Lachlan Ellis

Two major projects for Moorabool sporting clubs have had their completion dates pushed back until 2023, with a range of complications including material supply problems and workforce shortages blamed.
Moorabool Shire Council CEO Derek Madden said the delays for the Ballan Recreation Reserve and the Darley Park Pavilion were frustrating, and several issues were responsible.
“Council is disappointed that progress on these two projects has been slower than expected, but we understand the challenges the construction industry faces with material supply issues, workforce limitations and availability of specialised tradespeople,” Mr Madden told the Moorabool News.
“Progress with the new Ballan Recreation Reserve Pavilion has been impacted by a number of issues. These include slow progress with the original demolition contractor in January/February 2022 which required Council to make alternative arrangements with the nominated building contractor to compete the demolition works.”
Mr Madden said there were also delays with obtaining a permit from Central Highlands Water for installation of underground services.
“These delays pushed the concrete slab construction into the winter period with consequent challenges due to adverse weather.”
And with Darley Park Pavilion, Mr Madden said delays have been caused by a number of compliance concerns regarding the future building and the existing building.
“This has required a number of trades to be repriced and procured, and with the amount of work occurring within the industry, it has led to recommencement of work, which is taking longer than expected.”
Peter McGregor is President of the Ballan Recreation Reserve Committee of Management, and said the delays were disappointing for those that use the Reserve, but he hoped to see the works done early next year.
“For users it’s frustrating, but then we’ve also had some exceptional circumstances this financial year as well. I imagine the Cricket Club will be most affected [with the timing], but I’m pushing for them to finish the works as early as possible, and hopefully they can hold some major functions towards the end of the season, which will help them get back on track,” Mr McGregor said.
“As for the ground itself, they should be able to use it. It’s just limited for social functions at this stage. I’ve had a lot of discussions with a representative from Council, there was a period of time where they couldn’t tell us much, but I believe they’re now getting back on track. There’s been a combination of issues, but I think the Council’s getting back on top of them.”
Member for Buninyong, Michaela Settle – was present at the first sod turnings at Ballan in February and Darley in March – said she had been checking in with Council on the Ballan project.
“I can’t wait to see the Ballan Recreation Reserve Hub completed and have spoken regularly with Council to track progress. I know that the Council has been working closely with the local contractor to make sure the project is finished in plenty of time for the footy season. This will be a great community space for everyone in Ballan,” Ms Settle said.
The contract for Ballan Recreation Reserve Pavilion was awarded to WP Contractors in January 2022, and the contract for Darley Reserve Pavilion was awarded to Midson Constructions in October 2021.
The original planned completion date for both projects was November 2022, but the current date for completion is now February/March 2023.
A Council spokesperson said the delays would not have cost implications for Council, with both pavilions to be “delivered within budget”.
WP Contractors were contacted for comment but did not respond.