The Buninyong community has celebrated a major boost to local sport, with two new competition‑standard netball courts and the new LED scoreboard officially opened at the Buninyong Recreation Reserve over the weekend.
The project replaces the former single court with two new Netball Victoria‑compliant acrylic surface courts. The reserve upgrades are also supported by 200‑lux LED sports lighting for evening training and competition.
The City of Ballarat invested $1.2 million in the project, supported by a $150,000 contribution from the Victorian Government's Country Football and Netball Program. The project commenced in November 2025 and forms part of Council's broader upgrades to the Buninyong Recreation Reserve.
In addition to the new courts, works included:
- New fencing around the court precinct
- Concrete paths
- Stairs and accessible ramp connections
- DDA compliant car parking
- Player shelters
- New storage shed
A new electronic LED scoreboard has also been installed, made possible by a $130,000 contribution from the Victorian Government's Community Sport and Recreation Projects fund.
City of Ballarat Buninyong Ward Councillor and Deputy Mayor, Ben Taylor, visited alongside The Honourable Michaela Settle MP, State Member for Eureka, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Agriculture, to officially open the new courts. They were joined by club representatives and players at Saturday's Round 2 Buninyong Football Netball Club home game.
Cr Taylor said the exciting upgrades are game-changing for local participation.
"These new courts will have a lasting impact on netball in Buninyong, and the new electronic scoreboard will also support football and cricket teams who use the reserve," he said.
"With improved accessibility and modern facilities, the precinct is now safer and better equipped for our growing community of players and families."
The Honourable Michaela Settle MP, State Member for Eureka, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Agriculture, said it was great to see the valuable project now complete.
"These new courts are a great outcome for the many women and girls who play netball in Buninyong," she said.
"Quality facilities help make sure everyone has the chance to participate, stay active and be part of their local club."
The Buninyong Football Netball Club are primary users of the reserve. Club Secretary, Kristy Maxwell welcomed the project completion in time for the winter season.
"We're incredibly proud to see this project come to life" she said.
"These upgrades provide long-term benefits for our club and all participating teams, supporting player development, improving safety and enhancing the overall experience for our club and community."
The project was delivered in consultation with the Buninyong Football Netball Club and forms part of an ongoing program of improvements at the Buninyong Recreation Reserve.
