By Tate Papworth
Brimbank sporting grounds will share in a cash injection of more than half a million dollars from the state government.
Labor has pledged $300,000 towards the Western Eagles Football Club in Albion, and $250,000 to the East Keilor football and cricket clubs if it is re-elected in November.
The commitment will provide the Western Eagles with new LED lighting on the main pitch and pay for the current lighting to be moved onto the second pitch.
Despite record numbers at the club, including a growing women’s team, the Eagles cannot train or play on their grounds at night.
Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman said the upgrades would make the world of difference.
“This upgrade will mean that day and night, the Western Eagles will have the facilities they deserve,” she said.
Meanwhile, the East Keilor football and cricket clubs have been granted $250,000 to refurbish and extend the Overland Reserve pavilion.
The pavilion works will include female-friendly changerooms and amenities.
The reserve is used year-round by the clubs, which have almost 400 players between them. But according to the state government, the existing facilities are not up to modern standards and are inappropriate for women.
Member for Niddrie Ben Carroll said Overland Reserve was a much-loved space.
“A female-friendly pavilion at Overland Reserve will provide more opportunities for locals to get active and play the sport they love,” he said. “Overland Reserve is a real hub of our local community and these facilities will benefit our community for many years to come.”
The addition of a first floor as part of the upgrade will provide space for the clubs and community to hold events and functions.
The upgrade is part of a master plan for the reserve which includes new netball courts, ground realignment and lighting.
The announcements come following commitments of $250,000 for Errington Reserve and $250,00 for new lighting at the St Albans Saints’ Churchill Reserve.
