An expansion of the Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct in New Gisborne is now out to tender, with designs progressed and contractors invited to submit their proposals.
The $17 million second stage, funded by $15 million through the Australian Government's Priority Community Infrastructure Program and $2 million from Council, will double the current indoor and outdoor offerings across the 15-hectare site either side of Barringo Road and north of Hamilton Road.
On the western sports hub site, proposed upgrades include 3 new multi-use indoor courts; 4 gender-neutral changerooms; additional car parking; a dedicated drop-off zone; additional offices and other public amenities.
On the eastern sports field site, proposed upgrades include a second natural turf oval to the north of the existing oval and pavilion; 2 outdoor netball courts; and additional car parking.
Mayor Dom Bonanno said tendering out the works was a crucial next step to enable construction on a bolstered Sports Precinct, which was already being well utilised by local user groups and sports including AFL, basketball, netball, badminton and volleyball.
"The Sports Precinct was envisioned to be a conveniently located recreational hub for the Macedon Ranges community, and it has already been extremely well-utilised by pre-agreed user groups as well as new groups coming on board," he said.
"These planned upgrades will only further enhance the Sports Precinct's ability to host key matches, training, events and more - I look forward to contracts being awarded and the first sod turning on this second stage."
To help streamline the distinctly different types of work required and to support competitive tendering, the second stage will be divided into two separate contracts: one focused on vertical construction (i.e. buildings) and the other focused on civil works (i.e. ground works).
Contracts for the second stage are currently planned to be awarded to enable construction to start in late 2025, with works expected to be completed by late 2026. While there will be an increase in construction activity and workers during this time, public-facing disruptions are expected to be minimal.
The Sports Precinct's over-$29 million first stage was officially opened in June 2024 and delivered a three-court indoor sports hub, a natural turf oval with an adjoining sports pavilion and other facilities such as a playground, BBQ facilities and a fitness loop.
The Sports Precinct has become a focal point of community sport in the region, attracting nearly 85,000 participants in the first 12 months of operation. A number of regional and state level tournaments have also taken place, which has given a welcome boost to the tourism sector.
"With the current high demand for court space, we expect completion of Stage 2 works will further cement the facility as a key regional sporting facility, which will continue to provide benefits to the community well into the future," Mayor Bonanno said.
Council will continue its advocacy to secure funding for more upgrades to fully realise all elements outlined in the Sports Precinct's master plan.
For more information on the Sports Precinct project, visit the Macedon Ranges Sports Precinct project page . For more information on the venue, visit the venue page.
