The Monbulk community is celebrating the opening of the Monbulk Community Sports Pavilion. The pavilion, a purpose built community facility, is also the new home for Monbulk Football/Netball Club and Monbulk Cricket Club.
Federal Member for Casey Tony Smith said the new two-level Monbulk Community Sports Pavilion, which boasts new kitchen facilities and community activity spaces, was a great win for the local community and the region.
“The pavilion provides a permanent home for the more than 500 members of senior netball, senior and junior football, junior Auskick and cricket teams and gives local schools such as Monbulk College, Monbulk Primary and St. Paul’s Primary, a place to hold meetings and social gatherings,” Mr Smith said.
Victorian Deputy Premier and Member for Monbulk James Merlino said the bespoke facility would be used by the entire community.
“The pavilion will connect the community through sport and promote a volunteer culture that can lead toward pathways for employment,” Mr Merlino said.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the new facility, which includes co-gendered change rooms and amenities, would boost membership numbers, particularly for female players.
“The pavilion is equipped with a gym and offers spectator viewing areas. Improved facilities such as these will help attract more netballers, more cricketers, more footballers, more crowds and importantly more volunteers to the clubs,” Mr McCormack said.
Yarra Ranges Mayor Tony Stevenson said the new pavilion would bring the community together to celebrate and support local sport in an environment that was inclusive for all.
“Having this new community sports pavilion will give people the opportunity to get involved in sport, supporting healthy and active lifestyles for years to come,” Cr Stevenson said.
The project was jointly funded with the Australian Government providing $600,000, the Victorian Government $1.6 million, Yarra Ranges Shire Council $1.4 million and the Monbulk Recreation Reserve $190,000.
