By Councillor Peter Hemphill
I recently had the pleasure of attending the opening of the redevelopment at JT Gray Reserve in Williamstown.
It’s always fantastic to see a major project such as this come to fruition and to see the sports clubs and community in the new space.
Having worked with the tenant sports clubs when the idea of the redevelopment was first floated several years ago, it is so rewarding to see this project completed.
The new pavilion has 10 change rooms, a first aid room, umpire facilities, social areas, kitchens, public amenities, and storage.
The broader redevelopment also includes a new car park with 170 spaces, a four-wicket cricket practice facility, and behind-goal netting spanning 40 meters across the building.
These sorts of facilities are the heart of our community. They bring people together, they are a place where people can socialise, be active and create great memories.
So, it’s important we get them right. And I’m sure all the tenant clubs and the community will get a lot of enjoyment out of this redevelopment for many years to come.
There’s also some great work happening at the Newport Park Athletics Track to replace two throwing cages on the infield.
As part of the project, five shade sails along the main straight that have reached the end of their life are being replaced with new UV protective sails. Works on track are to be finished by the end of June.
My ward has a long and proud history of being an important part of the growth of Melbourne.
Industry has always been a big part of the identity of Hobsons Bay, and industrial land makes up a third of all land in our city.
Council has updated its strategy on how this industrial land should be used and developed, and we’re looking for community feedback on it.
You can review the updated strategy and have your say at
Finally, this week is ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Reconciliation Week – a time for us all to reflect on the role we can play in working towards reconciliation, particularly in the lead up to the Voice to Parliament referendum.
I have been a strong advocate for building the relationship with Indigenous Australians and encourage residents to support the Yes vote at the referendum.
Please check for details on our ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Reconciliation Week events.
