New life for the Somerville Recreation Centre
8 May 2019
The Somerville Recreation Centre officially opened its doors over the weekend, completing the $9 million project and providing the community with a new sporting facility.
The project was funded by Council ($4.3 million), the state government ($1.3 million) through the Sport and Recreation Victoria's Better Indoor Stadiums Fund and insurance covering the fire at the original building contributed towards the rest.
On Saturday 4 May 2019, Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Councillor David Gill and Watson Ward Councillor Julie Morris joined Martin Pakula MP – Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events to celebrate this huge milestone.
The free family day out was also attended by representatives from Belgravia Leisure and local sporting clubs the Western Port Basketball Association, Mornington Peninsula Badminton Inc and the Baxter Indoor Netball Association.
The day was in full swing, with around 1,000 community members coming together to see what the Centre has to offer, including basketball, netball and badminton skills clinics, as well as a range of group fitness activities.
Mayor Gill said this is one of the most significant community infrastructure projects that Somerville and the Shire has seen and is a great result for our community and sporting clubs.
Reconstruction of the Somerville Recreation Centre commenced in February 2018 featuring:
- four multi-sport indoor courts
- female-friendly change rooms
- an umpire change room
- 'Changing Places' accessible change facilities
- a first aid room
- tournament office
- storage and car parking
- refurbishing the damaged community area
- better public areas in the recreation centre.
"The project has provided the community with a modern, integrated sport and recreation, fitness and wellbeing facility to enjoy for generations to come," concluded Cr Gill.
Councillor Morris said we're proud of what we have accomplished.
"It was wonderful to celebrate the completion and welcome the Western Port Basketball Association, Mornington Peninsula Badminton Inc and the Baxter Indoor Netball Association to their new home
"Our sport clubs give our community so many wonderful opportunities for recreation and Council is proud to work with them to provide them with the facilities they need".
Belgravia Leisure CEO Nick Cox said his team was looking forward to working with Council and the Somerville community.
"We're excited to be taking on the operation of Somerville Recreation Centre and are especially looking forward to working with community groups within the municipality.
"Our team will be making sure the program of activities at the facility benefit many more people and community groups in Somerville than already enjoy the facility," Mr Cox said.
To learn more about what the Centre has to offer and how to purchase a membership visit somervillerecreationcentre.com.au.
