Two exciting projects currently under construction are set to revitalise Maryborough's Princes Park precinct over the coming months.
Three brand-new turf cricket pitches are almost complete at Princes Park Oval which is welcome news for our local cricket community – including the Maryborough Cricket Club.
The project includes the removal of existing pitches, installing sub-surface drainage, upgrading irrigation, and construction of three new turf pitches.
The $190,000 project is being funded thanks to $50,000 from Council, $100,000 from the State Government and $40,000 from Cricket Australia. Local contractor Shay Excavations are delivering the project.
The pitches are now complete with a 13 week wait for the turf to establish.
At the Maryborough Tennis Centre, a major court redevelopment is underway.
The project will deliver five new synthetic grass courts to replace the existing middle bank of grass court – including lighting. This $523,000 project is jointly funded thanks to $400,000 from the Victorian Government, $71,700 from Council, $20,000 contribution from the Maryborough Tennis Centre and a $31,300 National Court Rebate via Tennis Australia.
The courts will be constructed by Tuff Turf and the fencing works will be delivered by RNCO.CO.
The new courts are set to be completed by early 2026.
Central Goldfields Shire Maryborough East Ward Councillor Jake Meyer said it was fantastic to see investment in one of our Shire's most-loved sporting precincts.
"The Maryborough Cricket Club and the Maryborough Tennis Association have been advocating for these projects for many years. We thank them for their tireless efforts and are thrilled these projects are now coming to fruition.
"We also extend our thanks to the Victorian Government for their contribution to both projects, along with our other funding partners - Cricket Australia, Tennis Australia and the Maryborough Tennis Centre.
"We look forward to seeing the new facilities used and enjoyed by future generations in the years to come."
Maryborough Cricket Club President Troy Bursill said the Maryborough Cricket Club was absolutely delighted to finally have what every other local A Grade team enjoys: a modern four-pitch centre wicket area.
"Both the A Grade and A Reserve teams will be able to play on and experience a high-quality, even surface this summer and in the years ahead, ensuring fair and enjoyable contests for all.
"The new oval upgrades are a huge win for the community, providing long-term benefits for a wide range of local events and sporting activities. The improved surface will deliver a higher-quality playing field for both Junior and Senior Cricket, with new drainage installed beneath the square also supporting the Junior Football Club.
"Previously, the oval often became a muddy mess over winter — not pleasant on the nose. The upgrades will also better support major community events such as the Highland Games and Energy Breakthrough.
"A major feature of the project is the new inbuilt sprinkler system, designed for maximum water efficiency. The system provides even coverage across the entire oval, drawing from tank water collected from the grandstand and clubroom roofing, significantly reducing reliance on mains water and improving sustainability."
Maryborough Tennis Centre President Heather Carr said the Stage 2 Tennis Court upgrade had been part of a 10-year advocacy process by the club and committee.
"The club have worked hard to secure funding over the last few years, from State Government, Tennis Australia and club funds, towards the project supported by the Central Goldfields Shire.
"The completion will save on greenkeeper costs, maintenance of grass courts and lawn mowers plus water savings to have safe, sustainable courts for the future. The new light towers will allow play during the whole year and will mean tennis coaching programs can extend after daylight.
"For the past 15 years the grass courts have been eroded with Corella damage with most courts being closed during peak season across that time. Prior to that there were drought conditions where the water restrictions meant the courts could not be watered.
"The project will have widespread benefits. The tennis competitions, coaching programs and social plan opportunities offered by the Maryborough Tennis Centre support the whole of Central Goldfields Shire and surrounding towns.
"The Tennis Centre is also used by three local schools for their PE programs and junior school tournaments during the year. There is also high usage for the casual player and local families who utilise the venue for physical fitness and wellbeing.
"The new facilities will also mean the club can re-introduce junior/senior tournaments in partnership with Tennis Victoria, night-time tennis competition, coaching and casual play across the whole year. The venue is also popular for clubhouse hire by community groups and family events that utilise tennis play.
"The club volunteers and members are excited to see the project completed and look forward to welcoming the community to experience the new courts soon."
