Geelong deputy mayor Anthony Aitkin and member for Lara Ella George joined players, coaches and representatives from Lara sporting clubs last week to mark the beginning of construction for stage two of the City’s Lara Recreation Reserve Masterplan.
The project, made possible by $4.545 million of funding from Geelong council and $1 from the state government, will include the reconstruction of the baseball field, as well as construction of a new, modernised sporting pavilion for use by the baseball, cricket and football clubs.
The sporting precinct, home to more than 1,500 sporting participants each year, also hosts netball, soccer, tennis and lawn bowls competitions, as well as the 1st Lara Scouts and St Johns Ambulance.
One of the biggest sporting projects in the region, the master plan has already delivered new facilities for the Lara netball and tennis clubs.
Lara Sporting Club President Peter Kelly expressed gratitude to the City of Greater Geelong for its commitment to the master plan.
“The facility is a state-of-the-art complex benefiting not only the Lara Sporting Club members and participants but the entire Lara Community,” Mr Kelly said.
“The Lara Sporting Club would also like to acknowledge the City of Greater Geelong project team for their dedication to the project’s details and extend a thanks to Ward Councillor Anthony Aitken and Kylie Gryzbek, prior to her resignation from council, for their commitment to delivering the master plan.”
Deputy Mayor Aitken said the project was a testament to the community’s commitment.
“The future for Lara’s sporting and recreational scene is bright,” Cr Aitken said.
“I’m sure many Lara residents will welcome the completion of the project and appreciate all the opportunities that come with having such a top-notch facility.”
Ms George said she was happy Lara would get the sport and recreation facilities they deserved.
“These upgrades to football, cricket and baseball facilities will complement the recently opened netball and tennis pavilion, meaning there are great facilities for every sportsperson at Lara,” Ms George said.
“I’m proud of the Andrews Labor Government’s contribution to both stages of the Lara Recreation Reserve Masterplan which will ensure that more people can enjoy the health and social benefits at this local sporting facility.”
