Image: Senator Jana Stewart, Labor Senator for Victoria; Cr Brian Klowss, HRCC Mayor
Horsham Rural City Council is pleased to announce the official opening of the new netball pavilion at Horsham City Oval, celebrated at a ceremony on Wednesday 25 February.
Dignitaries and community representatives included Senator Jana Stewart, Labor Senator for Victoria; Mayor Cr Brian Klowss; HRCC Councillors; Chris Harrison, Barengi Gadjin Land Council (BGLC) Chair; Colin Gorton, BGLC On-Country Operations Manager; and BGLC Chief Financial Officer Chris Santagiuliana. They gathered to mark the completion of the $3 million redevelopment, which strengthens the City Oval precinct and supports the future of community sport in the region.
It was also wonderful to see representatives from the Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly, Netball Victoria, AFL Wimmera Mallee, and the Horsham Demons Football and Netball Club present to commemorate this exciting milestone.
Horsham-based company Locks Construction began work on the pavilion in November 2024. The project, supported by funding from Sport and Recreation Victoria, the Australian Government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and Horsham Rural City Council, was awarded locally, supporting the community while delivering an important facility.
The redevelopment delivers modern, safe and accessible facilities, including two upgraded netball courts with new lighting and spectator shelters. The pavilion provides female-friendly change facilities and amenities that meet current competition requirements, while also creating a flexible space that can be used by the broader community.
Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the project represents an important milestone for the municipality.
"The opening of this pavilion is significant for our community," Cr Klowss said.
"It supports our strong sporting culture while also providing a welcoming space for community groups and events. These facilities meet league requirements and ensure our region can continue to host local competition into the future."
"Most importantly, this investment creates a space that brings people together and supports participation for people of all ages."
The pavilion will now be known as the Hocking Street Community Pavilion. As a Council-owned facility, it will be available for a wide range of community uses beyond netball, supporting clubs, events and local organisations across the region.
The completion of the project enhances the City Oval precinct and reinforces Council's commitment to providing inclusive, future-focused infrastructure for the Horsham community.
