Wallington Recreation Reserve will get a $3 million facelift if the Liberal Party wins the November state election.
Liberal Party candidate for Bellarine Donnie Grigau announced the funding at Bellarine Bears Baseball Club’s presentation night.
The reserve is shared by the Bears and by Wallington Wallabies Cricket Club.
“Great to see both clubs working hard to make their sports for everyone,” Mr Grigau said.
“Love seeing the growth in your womens, kids and mixed teams. Your hard work is paying off. Reward for effort.
“Hope to turn your field of dreams to a reality.”
Bellarine Bears and Wallington Wallabies welcomed the announcement.
“Very satisfying and validating for the years of effort, energy and hundreds of volunteer hours that go into providing mens, womens and junior sport to the Bellarine community,” Bears vice-president Matt Connell said.
“To say that we’re rapt with the announcement would be an understatement.”
Wallington Cricket Club president Marc Occhipinti shared a similar view.
“Both clubs have worked extensively over many years to develop a plan to upgrade the Wallington Reserve and Wallington CC thanks the Bellarine Bears for their significant contribution to get to this stage,” he said.
“The dilapidated state of the training nets and clubrooms that have largely been untouched for more than 30 years are woefully inadequate given the explosive growth the cricket club has achieved over the last three years.
“Our membership has grown 700% in three years, which means we are now bursting at the seams in our current infrastructure.
“We are thankful that our commitment to the cause has allowed the funding opportunity to arise.”
Mr Occhipinti said the redevelopment of the reserve would ensure state of the art training nets with improved safety, female friendly changerooms, facilities to accommodate all abilities and will continue to provide a quality program and ensure a safe and inclusive environment.
Labor candidate for Bellarine Alison Marchant declined to comment when contacted by the Voice.
