Residents, sporting clubs and emergency services will soon benefit from a major $360,000 lighting upgrade at Willow Grove Recreation Reserve.
The project, expected to be completed by 2028, has secured $250,000 in funding from the Victorian Government via Sport and Recreation Victoria, alongside contributions of $70,000 from Baw Baw Shire Council, $30,000 from the AFL and $10,000 from local community clubs.
As Willow Grove's primary community hub, the reserve plays a vital role in bringing people together through sport, recreation and social connection. It is also used by the local CFA brigade as a staging area during emergency events.
An asset assessment identified inadequate lighting levels for winter training, with poor visibility often worsened by fog.
Baw Baw Shire Council Mayor Councillor Kate Wilson said the upgrade would deliver significant benefits for both the community and emergency services.
"This project will increase lighting levels from 30 lux to an average minimum of 100 lux, creating a safer, fit-for-purpose facility for sporting clubs, residents and emergency responders," said Cr Wilson.
"The reserve is much more than a sporting ground. It is a key gathering place for the Willow Grove community and an important asset during emergency situations.
"Investing in facilities like this helps ensure our smaller communities remain connected, active and resilient. We look forward to seeing the lights switched on and the positive impact this project will have for years to come."
Representative of AFL Gippsland, Nicole Bertuna, echoed the sentiment.
"We're really pleased to support the lighting project at Willow Grove and the opportunities it will create for the Hill End Junior and Senior Football Clubs and the wider community," said Ms Bertuna.
"Improved lighting is an important investment in the future of community football. It will give the clubs greater flexibility for training and night games, help them make better use of their facilities and create more opportunities for people to participate. Importantly, the upgrade will also support the continued growth of female football in the region, providing greater flexibility for training and fixturing as participation continues to grow.
"It's a great investment in football at Willow Grove Recreation Reserve and one that will benefit local players, clubs and the community for years to come."
Hillend & Grove Rovers Football Netball Club President, Andrew Tangusso, and Hillend Junior Football Club Secretary, Lee Cochrane, said the clubs are looking forward to the much-needed upgrades.
"The club won't have to train in the dark anymore, and I won't have to get my ute out and put the spotlights on," said Mr Tangusso.
"Just having the lights working will be awesome. It will make things much safer for all our players and parents," said Ms Cochrane.
The upgrade includes the installation of four 30-metre lighting towers with energy-efficient LED fittings, upgraded electrical cabling and supporting infrastructure, associated civil works, and comprehensive lighting compliance testing and certification.
"Council is committed to supporting healthy, connected and proud communities through quality recreation facilities, programs and events. Upgrading and renewing sporting infrastructure remains a key priority for Council and is supported through a range of strategic plans, including the Council Plan 2025-2029," said Cr Wilson.
