Liberal candidate for the seat of Corangamite Darcy Dunstan has pledged nearly $1 million for the upgrade of Grovedale netball courts if Peter Dutton wins the federal election.
Since the end of last season, Grovedale Football Netball Club has been unable to use its netball courts after they were decommissioned on safety grounds.
Mr Dunstan announced on Thursday (March 6) a successful Dutton government would foot the bill for $898,000 of the $948,000 worth of upgrades required to get the courts up to code.
Mr Dunstan said the funding would deliver safe, compliant netball courts so that Grovedale’s young girls and women could once more play and train on their home courts.
“With more than 400 netball players, the club plays a vital role in keeping kids and adults active and engaged in sport,” Mr Dunstan said.
“But without safe and compliant courts, our local netballers have been left without a home. This funding will fix that and secure the future of netball in Grovedale.
“For too long, this vital project has been ignored by a local member asleep at the wheel.
“When we invest in local sport, we’re investing in stronger communities, healthier families and better outcomes for everyone — from kids playing their first game to senior players and volunteers who give so much to their club.”
Grovedale Football Netball Club netball president Kelly McCarthy welcomed the funding commitment.
“It’s been six years of effort and uncertainty since our courts were decommissioned, so getting this funding means we can get back to our home courts and be confident of our future,” Ms McCarthy said.
“Thanks to Darcy for listening and for fighting for this important project.”
