Newcomb & District can prepare for the upcoming cricket season in style after a brand new cricket practice facility was installed at Grinter Reserve.
The $807,430 nets redevelopment at the home of the Dinos features new turf and synthetic practice nets built to modern standards, replacing the reserve’s existing outdated facilities.
The facility was officially opened on Sunday August 25 during a ceremony attended by representatives from all three levels of government, as well as Newcomb and District CC committee members and players.
Newcomb and District CC announced during Sunday’s ceremony that the facility would be known as the Peter ‘Skinny’ Harrison Training Facility, in honour of the club’s long-time curator and legendary player.
Club president John Elliott said the reserve’s previous training facilities were divided and located in two separate areas.
“They were tired and run down and had safety related issues,” Mr Elliott said.
“This separation did not provide for an inclusive environment. Having a modern and centralised facility will allow us to attract increased involvement from all areas within the community and will complement the work undertaken by the committee and volunteers in recent times to increase junior and diverse participation.
“It allows us to promote participation between junior playing groups and senior players, allowing for enhanced junior development and participation, and will afford opportunities for senior members to mentor junior members, foster role model behaviours and develop positive relationships in a sage and inclusive environment.”
The project was jointly funded by the Australian government ($680,000 via the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program), the Victorian government ($100,000 via Sport and Recreation Victoria) and the City of Greater Geelong ($27,430).
