Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards joined Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters MP, Mount Alexander Shire Council representatives and the Maldon Bombers Football and Netball Club to officially launch new oval and court lighting at Bill Woodfull Recreation Reserve, made possible by a $200,000 investment from the Country Football and Netball Program.
Up until recently, members of the Bombers football and netball teams were limited in their ability to train and compete due to poor lighting.
Works at the sports ground have installed new 100 lux LED lighting around the oval and 200 lux LED lighting at the main netball court, giving the more than 260 players additional opportunities to perfect their game.
Brighter lights allow better use and increased playable hours. The new lights will also help expand development programs and teams, giving more people the opportunity to get in the game.
“Our community has grown around clubs like the Bombers – the new lighting ensures there’s more opportunity for locals to join in the fun and support local sport,” Ms Edwards said.
“Better sport and recreation facilities make it easier for Victorians to enjoy the sports they love and lead healthy and active lifestyles.”
Benefits from the new lighting will also extend to the wider community, who will have more time to get together with friends and family to use the facilities for casual sport and play.
The new lighting complements the recently completed female friendly change room and player shelter upgrades at the ground backed by a more than $1 million investment from the Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.
Developed in partnership with AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria, the Country Football and Netball Program has invested more than $40 million in over 575 projects since 2005.
It’s part of the more than $2.3 billion the Victorian Government’s has kicked into community sport and active recreation infrastructure over the past decade.
The Victorian Budget 2024/25 is providing more than $23 million to continue delivery of community sport and active recreation infrastructure and programs to increase participation opportunities and improve accessibility. This includes continuing the Country Football and Netball Program, so more Victorians can participate.
Maree Edwards MP acknowledged the Mount Alexander Shire Council for its almost $60,000 contribution and commitment to delivering the project, and the Federal Government for its more than $250,000 contribution to the project.
