By Maddison Howell
A $12 million election pledge towards the redevelopment of the Shepparton Sports and Events Centre has been announced by the Liberal and Nationals Coalition, alongside two further funding commitments targeting regional agriculture and road safety.
The sports centre commitment, announced on Monday by Nationals leader Danny O’Brien, Shepparton District candidate Shane Sali and Liberal Northern Victoria candidate Steve Brooks, would contribute towards the proposed $37 million redevelopment of the existing stadium.
The current four-court facility has served the community for more than 50 years, but the Coalition says it is now at capacity and falls short of modern accessibility and flexibility standards.
The proposed redevelopment would include four new national-standard multi-use courts, a show court with seating for up to 3,000 spectators, modern change rooms, accessible amenities and improved access throughout the precinct.
Mr Sali said local sporting clubs, schools and community groups were competing for limited court space as participation continued to grow.
The Coalition says the redevelopment would also improve Shepparton’s ability to host regional, state and national sporting events, potentially bringing more visitors to local businesses.
Queensland Fruit Fly Pledge
Another $4 million pledge over four years would support the Goulburn Murray Valley Queensland Fruit Fly Area Wide Management Program, which works to manage the pest and protect the region’s horticultural industry.
The proposed funding would support surveillance, targeted control measures and community education, helping growers monitor fruit fly activity and respond to outbreaks. The program aims to reduce the impact of the pest on local fruit and vegetable production, with the horticultural industry an important part of the regional economy.
Intersection Upgrade
A further $5 million commitment has been made towards upgrading the intersection of Naring and Tocumwal roads near Numurkah.
The proposed works would include road realignment, protected turning lanes, improved lighting and drainage. The upgrade is intended to improve safety for motorists travelling through the intersection, including those accessing surrounding rural roads and properties.
All three commitments are conditional on the Coalition winning government at the November 28 Victorian election.
