THE Coalition Government will commit $25M to upgrade and expand the Shepparton Sports Stadium, to transform it into the new Shepparton Sports and Events Centre.
Originally built in 1972, this funding will ensure the centre can meet local demand and effectively compete with other regional cities for significant sporting events, such as state and national championships. After significant upgrades, the Shepparton Sports and Event Centre will be able to host elite netball, basketball, and other sports competitions.
Minister for Regionalisation, Regional Communications, and Regional Education, Bridget McKenzie, said the redevelopment will transform the ageing centre into a state-of-the-art modern sports and events facility to service athletes from the wider Goulburn and Murray regions, benefiting a population of around 220,000 people.
“A re-elected coalition government will be investing $25 million in developing this sports stadium and we’re partneting with the Mayor, and the local government, who are investing $15 million,” said Senator McKenzie announcing the funding at the stadium on Monday.
Nationals candidate for Nicholls, Sam Birrell, commented that the Federal Government and local Council had “stepped up to the plate.”
“It’s time for the Victorian Government to come and not only put their share of funding into this project, but to make a commitment to Shepparton and Greater Shepparton for the Commonwealth Games,” he said.
“Because it was Greater Shepparton that came up with the idea of a regional Commonwealth Games, and it seems that this State Government has has diverted attention away to some other regional cities.”
