Thirteen local not-for-profit sporting and recreation organisations have been successful in the latest round of Yarra Ranges Council's Capital Development Grants Program, sharing in funding to improve facilities across the municipality.
From new netball shelters and safer cricket training nets, to improved accessibility at a local bowls clubhouse and upgrades to BMX, tennis and pony club facilities, the projects will help create better places for people of all ages and abilities to get active, connect with others and enjoy their local community.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Richard Higgins, said the program was about investing in the places where communities come together.
"Our local sporting and recreation clubs are much more than places to play sport - they are places where people build friendships, stay active and feel connected to their community," Cr Higgins said.
"These grants will help clubs make important improvements to their facilities, creating safer, more inclusive and more welcoming spaces for participants, volunteers and the broader community.
"It's fantastic to see such a diverse range of projects supported this year, from improvements to sporting surfaces and training facilities through to accessibility upgrades, shade and seating, storage and flood mitigation.
"By investing alongside our local clubs, Council is helping strengthen the facilities and organisations that play such an important role in the health and wellbeing of our communities."
The Capital Development Grants Program provides up to $30,000 for eligible projects, with clubs contributing matching funding. Projects can have a total value of up to $80,000 and must improve existing facilities on land or assets owned and/or maintained by Council.
The successful 2026/27 projects are:
- Croydon and Districts Table Tennis Association - stadium rejuvenation through painting works.
- Healesville Tennis Club - upgraded court seating for participants.
- Kilsyth Basketball - replacement of foyer carpet flooring.
- Kilsyth Cricket Club - redevelopment of cricket training nets.
- Lilydale BMX Club - BMX track surface and sustainability upgrades.
- Melbourne Gun Club - flood mitigation and levee bank infrastructure upgrades.
- Monbulk Pony Club - completion of Stage 2 cross-country course upgrades.
- Mooroolbark Cricket Club - safety netting for training nets.
- Seville Pony Club - new horse tie-up area.
- Silvan Football Club - new secure storage shed.
- Woori Yallock Football Netball Club - new netball shelters for players, coaches and officials.
- Yarra Glen Bowls Club - clubhouse renovations to improve accessibility and community use.
- Yarra Junction Bowling Club - creation of an additional rink, with seating and shade, to accommodate more players.
Projects were assessed on their demonstrated community need and benefits to participation, the organisation's capacity to deliver the project, opportunities to improve female participation and inclusion, accessibility and engagement of disadvantaged groups, and the incorporation of sustainability measures.
The Capital Development Grants Program supports Council's commitment to improving physical and mental health through sport and recreation, increasing participation, encouraging active living and improving community safety.
