The new male and female-friendly accessible pavilion at Arundel Street Sports Ovals is now open and ready to be used by the community for years to come.
State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes formally opened the new multi-sport pavilion, which was made possible thanks to a $500,000 grant from the Victorian Government’s Strategic Community Sports Fund.
“I’ve worked with the community for a number of years on this project, I listened to their vision and I’m proud to join them to celebrate the opening of this fantastic new facility,” Ms Symes said.
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“This modern and accessible pavilion gives our local cricket and football community the facilities they deserve and will encourage more people to get involved in sport.
“Sport and active recreation play a vital role in bringing our communities together and boosting people’s physical and mental wellbeing.”
Arundel Street Sports Ovals are an important sporting hub in Benalla.
They are home to clubs participating in the Benalla and District Junior Football League as well as Benalla Bushrangers Cricket Club, which together have more than 450 members.
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Until recently home clubs were using Benalla Agricultural Society’s old cattle yard shed as a change facility and were unable to properly accommodate growing numbers, especially girls and women signing up to play.
The new multi-sport pavilion features female-friendly change areas, internally accessible showers, toilets and storage, and an additional set of externally accessible toilets.
There’s also a new kiosk and covered spectator viewing area for local fans and teams alike.
This will not only be a boost for local clubs, but the local Benalla Agricultural Society now has a great new pavilion to help deliver the agricultural show, which attracts about 5000 visitors annually.
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Investments like these are all about creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and fast-tracking community recovery by improving the health, wellbeing, social and economic outcomes for Victorian communities.
It’s part of the Victorian Government’s strong commitment to sport and active recreation, gender equality and encouraging all Victorians to get out there and get active.
Ms Symes acknowledged Benalla Rural City Council, Benalla and District Junior Football League and Benalla Bushrangers Cricket Club for their commitment and financial contribution to the project.
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