Much-needed upgrades for Murtoa Recreation Reserve will become a reality if the Liberals and Nationals are elected to government in November.
The Nationals Member for Lowan Emma Kealy today attended the annual Murtoa Show to announce a commitment towards the reserve’s redevelopment alongside representatives from the reserve’s user groups and Yarriambiack Shire Council, who have been working in tandem for many years to advocate for upgrades.
Ms Kealy said the council and reserve subcommittee had worked tirelessly to progress plans for a staged development of the reserve, including a new community centre and changerooms upgrades, plus a range of smaller improvements to the venue’s ticket booth, spectator shelter, and oval surface.
“The Murtoa Recreation Reserve is not just a sporting facility – it’s the heart of the town and a hub used year-round for events like the Murtoa Big Weekend, football, netball and cricket matches, and for business and private events,” Ms Kealy said.
“Unfortunately, the reserve’s infrastructure is ageing and at a point where significant redevelopment is needed to ensure community groups can continue to use the facility effectively.
“The existing community centre at the reserve – a second-hand classroom relocated in 2004 as a temporary solution – is at the end of its life, while the netball amenities are no longer fit for purpose and require substantial repairs.
“The commitment from the Liberals and Nationals will give council and the subcommittee the certainty they need to progress plans for improvements at the reserve and help bring these much-needed upgrades to fruition.”
Yarriambiack Shire Mayor Andrew McLean congratulated the reserve committee and user groups in championing the project.
“This substantial commitment will provide an important co-contribution that strengthens our ability to leverage additional federal government funding and bring this transformative project to life,” he said.
“The redevelopment of the community centre will create a lasting legacy asset that will serve local sporting clubs, community groups and future generations, while enhancing opportunities for participation, connection, economic development and community wellbeing.
“This type of investment is truly changemaking. It has the power to deliver enormous social and economic benefits, not only for Murtoa but for the broader region.
“On behalf of Yarriambiack Shire Council and the Murtoa community, we sincerely thank The Nationals and our local Member, Emma Kealy, for their ongoing commitment to rural Victoria and for recognising the importance of investing in community infrastructure that helps rural communities thrive.”
Ms Kealy said The Nationals had a positive plan to rebuild regional Victoria, backed by a Fair Share Guarantee to ensure regional communities received their fair share of government infrastructure investment.
“We know that 25 per cent of Victorians live in regional Victoria, so it’s only fair we receive 25 per cent of new infrastructure funding,” she said.
“Our promise to kickstart major upgrades at Murtoa Recreation Reserve is part of our commitment to deliver a fair share of investment in the infrastructure our regional and rural communities need and deserve to keep them thriving.”
