Sporting precinct takes shape

By Helen Tatchell

It is the largest new sporting infrastructure project ever to be undertaken by Moorabool Council and the landscape is changing every day and starting to form a clearer picture.
Overall the $20-$25 million staged project at the Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Recreation Reserve (BMRRR) is only fully funded for Stage 1, that includes a combined $200,000 from the Sport & Recreation Victoria Community Sports Infrastructure Fund for both the BMX track development and the Cricket/Soccer field development.
Hume Turf spokesperson Steve Koscak said they have been engaged by Moorabool Shire Council to construct the new sporting precinct.
“We have reshaped the field to the desired levels, installed the irrigation systems and it is not far away from being fully functional. We are also in the process of installing the drainage network and gearing up to lay the turf,” he said.
The works include two soccer fields and one oval combination use.
Deputy Mayor Cr John Keogh said the new facility is extremely important to the community.
“Extra playing fields will always be an asset to any community,” he said
And in regard to government funding, Cr Keogh said if you look at the per capita funding for shires and councils, “we are far, far, far behind.”
“The surrounding municipalities have done very nicely; it is now time for us.
“We are already assembling the figures to advocate to candidates in the upcoming Federal election,” he said.
The total cost for Stage 1 is $9.2 million and “will be built in stages”, General Manager Infrastructure Phil Jeffrey told the Moorabool News.
“We hope the surfaces will be ready for the 2019/20 cricket season,” he said.
Other State Government funding successfully sourced is lighting of the soccer pitches ($250,000 The World Game Facilities) and $800,000 from CSIF-Major Facilities for the construction of Stage 1 Pavilion.