The local community turned out to celebrate the Drouin Hawks' return to their home ground at the Drouin Recreation Reserve on Saturday following the completion of the oval's major redevelopment.
The $3.3 million dollar redevelopment included a $1 million dollar funding contribution by the Victorian Government's Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.
The contract for the resurfacing project was awarded to Evergreen Turf Group Pty Ltd at a Council meeting in August 2024.
The oval at the reserve has been completely resurfaced with the recently completed works including the installation of new drainage and irrigation systems to improve the oval's surface.
The new natural turf playing surface at Drouin will eliminate past issues regarding drainage and water retention and the redevelopment also includes new and improved seating, player shelters, perimeter footpath, and fencing.
Baw Baw Shire Council Mayor Councillor Danny Goss said he was proud to see the oval reopen to the local community.
"There is no question that our local sporting clubs and sporting grounds are very important to our community," Cr Goss said.
"This oval resurfacing project has been an important priority for Baw Baw Shire Council. The installation of new drainage and irrigation systems will improve the oval's surface and player experience now and into the future.
"This is another example of what can be achieved for our community when a Council and the Victorian Government work in partnership to fund and deliver essential outcomes, and we look forward to continuing to collaborate with the Victorian Government to deliver many more outcomes for our community."
Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing MP, spoke at the opening on Saturday, visiting the oval again after announcing funding for the project at the Drouin Recreation Reserve in July 2024.
"We've invested in a range of new and upgraded sporting and community facilities across West Gippsland and it was a pleasure to advocate for a better, more useable, and accessible oval for Drouin - one that can be used and enjoyed for even more training and competition, year-round," said Ms Shing.
"Better sport and recreation facilities like these bring the community together in all sorts of positive ways - helping families, players, volunteers and spectators to get involved and get active."
Official proceedings were followed by a coin toss and Drouin Football Club and Warragul Football Club players then took to the ground for their final Home and Away Seniors Football match at Drouin Recreation Reserve for the 2025 Winter Season.
Drouin Football Club President, Luke Gilbert says the upgraded rec reserve will provide the club and the community with a facility to be proud of.
"For many years, the surface has not held up in mid-winter months. It has consistently led to alternate training arrangements and a lack of opportunity to hold a final and bring that foot traffic into the Drouin township," said Mr Gilbert.
"We are grateful for all parties involved, specifically the Baw Baw Shire Council, State Government and our wonderful sponsors who stayed on board with us despite our decanting. We look forward to showcasing this arena for years to come."
