After a number of frustrating cancellations due to Covid-19 restrictions, an official opening was finally held today for the Cameron Sporting Complex redevelopment.
The $9.5 million redevelopment was the largest of its kind in Maffra’s history, bringing the facility up to modern standards to allow increased participation in sport and recreation activities for the community.
The project included the building of two extra indoor sports courts compliant for basketball, netball and volleyball; the refurbishment of the indoor show court, toilets, changerooms and amenities; and an expansion of the gymnastics facilities including a high roof extension to 12 metres to allow for competitive trampolining.
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye said the project was an incredible achievement for all involved, with many years in the planning stages and close consultation with user groups right through the build.
“While the funding of this project is obviously the integral part, once that had been secured it was always Council’s endeavour to build the very best facility possible for the community’s needs within the budget constraints. I’m sure we can all agree today that the final product is magnificent,” he said.
“The new Cameron Sporting Complex meets the needs of sporting participation in Maffra and the surrounding communities today and it will into the future. Increased participation in sport and recreation is a win for the health and wellbeing of all in our community.”
The Mayor made particular reference to the efforts of the Maffra Basketball Association and the Maffra Gymnastics Club who each raised $125,000 towards the project.
“For grassroots clubs to take on the challenge and raise such a large amount of money is just incredible and it is a credit to the volunteers involved in these clubs. You have worked hard for this and you deserve every positive outcome from the final product,” Cr Bye said.
The Cameron Sporting Complex redevelopment was made possible by $5.25 million in funding from Council, along with $3 million from Sport and Recreation Victoria, $1 million from the Latrobe Valley Authority, $125,000 from the Maffra Basketball Association and $125,000 from the Maffra Gymnastics Club.
