A NEW sports pavilion in Caroline Springs will help keep local children off the streets and away from crime, according to a key stakeholder.
The $2.6 million Springside Community Pavilion was officially opened last week and will be shared by a host of local groups.
The pavilion features a large function area, meeting and change rooms, a kitchen and public amenities.
It complements the reserve’s synthetic playing surfaces which can be used for multiple sports.
Spring Hills Football Club vice-president Tom Markovski said the pavilion would also benefit the wider Caroline Springs community.
“One of our junior players grew up in a violent household and became very aggressive and didn’t want to go to school,” he said.
“Being part of a team has helped calm him down and he’s now attending more classes at school.
”It is important for Caroline Springs to have clubs and facilities in place so kids living here can get out and socialise in a safe environment.”
Markovski said Spring Hills had about 400 junior players and could grow to be one of the biggest clubs in the west.
Melton Shire mayor Justin Mammarella said the pavilion project, which was funded by the council and state government, completed the Springside community hub.
“Having so many facilities in one location is convenient for our residents and ensures they are provided with services that are inclusive and support their needs,” he said.
Markovski said the club wanted the pavilion to be a meeting place for young people.
“We have raised about $50,000 with the help of sponsors and are putting it all into the club,” he said.
“We have put in some fridges and benches and hope to put in some televisions.”
The club has also installed a defibrillator, which can be used by other groups.
Western Metropolitan Liberal MP Andrew Elsbury said that among the pavilion’s best features was its location.
“Being so close to local schools and public transport, it’s a place that all members of the community will be able to access and enjoy.”
