31 JULY 2024 | ISSUE 553 | FREE
GOULBURN RIVER & RANGES
Exciting News for Longwood Football Netball Club as Funding Secured for New Facilities!
In a major boost for the Longwood Football Netball Club and the entire community, funding has been confirmed for an extensive upgrade at the Longwood Recreation Reserve. The club has successfully secured a substantial grant from the Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, signaling the much-anticipated development of a purpose-built change room facility. The significance of this project cannot be overstated, with the $686,825 endeavour made possible through a collaborative effort. Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Regional Community Sports
Infrastructure Fund has generously allocated $549,460, while the Longwood Football Netball Club itself has contributed $50,075. Recognising the importance of this initiative, the Strathbogie Shire Council has also pledged $87,290, which includes valuable in-kind contributions. One of the most exciting aspects of this upgrade is the introduction of female-friendly change room facilities, longawaited by the club's female participants. This modern space is not only set to enhance the experience for existing members but also aims to attract new participants, promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the sporting community. The comprehensive project includes the construction of a dedicated change room area complete with adjoining toilets and showers, umpires change facilities, an administration area, and a publicly accessible all-abilities bathroom with associated access. This holistic approach emphasises the club's commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for all its members and visitors.
The significance of this funding announcement was underscored by the visit of Jaclyn Symes, Member for Northern Victoria, who personally shared the exciting news during a special visit to the Longwood Netball Football Club. The enthusiasm surrounding this development is echoed by the Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, who recognised the tireless dedication of Club President Ricki Shiner and the entire Longwood Football Netball Club in advocating for this vital initiative. Ms. Cleeland expressed her congratulations to the club and its supporters, emphasising the transformative impact this funding will have on the local sporting landscape. This momentous achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit of the Longwood Football Netball Club and the Longwood Community Centre Incorporated. Their relentless efforts in securing this vital funding have laid the foundation for a new era of growth and development within the local sporting community.