Media
TRANSFORMING EASTWOOD LEISURE COMPLEX
Member for Ballarat Catherine King today announced that the Eastwood Leisure Complex will receive $8.53 million under round 2 of the Albanese Labor Government’s Growing Regions Program.
Jointly funded with the City of Ballarat, who are contributing $9.01 million, the project will deliver a multipurpose community hub to meet the needs of the growing Ballarat community.
The existing facility will be demolished, excluding the attached stadium which will be retained and reclad. The new, fit for purpose centre will provide a reception area and contemporary and accessible training, meeting and activity rooms, as well as a main hall with spaces for sport, education and cultural events.
The Eastwood Leisure Complex currently has over 1200 weekly users and 255 hours of weekly programming. Over 100 clubs and organisations hire the space annually, with 67 regular user groups.
The redevelopment has been identified by City of Ballarat as a priority project which will provide an opportunity for generational change in the heart of the Ballarat CBD.
The project will also provide considerable economic stimulus through employment, and supply chain benefits for the Ballarat region.
Construction is expected to take 24 months, with the facility to be complete by the end of 2026.
The project is one of eight successful Victorian projects, which went through a competitive, merits-based assessment process.
The Growing Regions Program delivers investment in infrastructure across Australia's regional, rural and remote areas and is part of the Albanese Government’s initiative to empower councils and local groups to build places to gather that promote connection and shape everyday lives.
For more information, visit: infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/regional-australia/regional-and-community-programs/growing-regions-program.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:
“Whether it’s basketball, Irish dancing, school holiday care or U3A, so many locals have memories of Eastwood Leisure Complex.
“I can’t think of another place in Ballarat that accommodates so many diverse user groups, which means that so many people in our community will benefit from the transformation of Eastwood.
“It’s a place where people come together through sport, the arts, education and cultural activities; it’s a place that makes us more connected as community.
“Eastwood Leisure centre really deserves this upgrade and I’m thrilled that the Albanese Government is supporting City of Ballarat to get the job done for our city.”
Quotes attributable to Chair of the Eastwood Committee of Management Mark Valentine:
“The Eastwood Leisure Complex has served the Ballarat community for almost 80 years and has done so in a combination of spaces which have struggled to meet the needs of the many user groups. Despite the limitations of the rooms and halls user groups have flourished over the years.
“Around ten years ago the ELC Board recognised that site development was sorely needed and discussions commenced with the Ballarat City Council. Whilst always supportive meaningful changes were always up against budgetary constraints.
“Now that the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Fund has contributed so handsomely to the project, existing and new user groups can look forward to modern purpose-built spaces ready to build community partnerships well into the latter part of the 21st century.”
Quotes attributable to President of Ballarat Wildcats Basketball Club Garth Kydd:
“The Eastwood Leisure Complex has been a vital hub for the Wildcats Basketball Club, providing a space for players and the community to connect and inspire through sport. Despite its aging facilities, the Wildcats have thrived, exemplifying the resilience and passion of the club's community.
“Now, thanks to the Federal Government’s Growing Greater Regions Fund and support from the City of Ballarat, these much-needed upgrades will create modern, purpose-built spaces that enhance the experience for Wildcats players and inspire future ballers. New facilities for the club, including a dedicated entrance, upgraded locker spaces, and modern changerooms, will bring a greater sense of professionalism while enhancing the lives of locals and ensuring basketball remains a thriving part of ELC community for generations to come.”
22 January 2025
