Portland’s Alexandra Park is set for a major transformation, thanks to a $3.22 million funding boost from the second round of the Andrews Labor Government’s Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program.
Labor Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney announced the project was one of 42 initiatives that secured funds in the second round of the program.
Once complete, Alexandra Park will feature a new multi-purpose pavilion with accessible unisex toilets and changerooms, a kitchen and social room, car parking, accessible pathways and sport field lighting.
The facility will provide a perfect base for Westerns Football Netball Club, Portland-Gorae Cricket Club and Portland BMX Club to develop programs, train, host matches and events.
In addition, this facility will benefit nearby Kyeema Support Services and Portland Bay School, providing services to children, young people and adults with a disability.
The provision of accessible recreational facilities at Alexandra Park will provide genuine opportunities for people with a disability to fully participate in active recreation and community social life.
The project is expected to create new full-time jobs during the planning and design phase, and additional jobs when construction commences.
By working with local government authorities and sporting clubs and organisations, investment from the second round of the program is expected to create 600 local jobs and drive local economic activity worth more than $180 million.
A total of 70 projects have benefitted from a share of $178 million from the Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus Program, part of the Government’s $1.05 billion investment in community sport and recreation infrastructure since 2014.
Ms Tierney acknowledged the Glenelg Shire Council, Westerns Football Netball Club, Portland-Gorae Cricket Club and Portland BMX Club for their commitment and financial contribution to the project.
For more information about the program and details on projects, go to sport.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“This is a fantastic outcome and I’m absolutely thrilled to have been able to help secure the $3.22 million injection of funds to get this project underway and get it done.”
“This investment is a big win for the Portland community. The funding will support jobs, drive economic economy and produce a facility that will help more people in our community come together.”
“Congratulations to the Westerns Football Netball Club, Portland-Gorae Cricket Club and Portland BMX Club – this boost will go a long way to support the growing number of people in Portland keen to get involved in local sport and recreation.”
“For too long these clubs have been hamstrung by outdated facilities – they deserve appropriate facilities they can be proud of.”
“The Victorian Government is making sport and recreation more accessible, welcoming and inclusive for all Victorians, so more people can play the sport they love.”