The opening of Council's new grandstand and facilities at Jack Edwards Reserve in Oakleigh was a celebration of the future of football in Monash.
Home to Victorian Premier League's Oakleigh Cannons, the new facilities include a grandstand with 500 undercover seats, lighting upgrades and facilities for players, spectators, referees and club volunteers.
Monash Mayor Cr Paul Klisaris, who was joined at the opening by Steve Dimopoulos, State MP for Oakleigh, and Clare O'Neil, Federal MP for Hotham, was delighted to see the project delivered after years of planning.
"These modern facilities will allow the Oakleigh Cannons to grow their programs – including creating more opportunities for women's and girls' teams.
"This $14.7m investment represents a dream and plan that began over 25 years ago for football in Oakleigh.
"It has been a long journey, with setbacks and challenges, but Monash Council and the football community have remained committed that young people and families deserve a home that matches their passion, love and commitment for their game.
"The project has been made possible by $8.2m from Council, $4m from the Victorian Government, $2m from the Australian Government and a commitment of $530,000 from the Oakleigh Cannons.
"This is another example of the three different levels of government coming together to create community sporting facilities here in Monash," added Cr Klisaris.
The grandstand was in use for the first time in August and looked fantastic full of people in Oakleigh's iconic blue and white. The first of many games for the Cannons at their upgraded home ground.
