Improvements to clubrooms and upgrades to the Merbein Fire Brigade running track are among priority projects identified in the draft Chaffey Park Reserve Masterplan review, which has just been released for public comment.
The draft review is the result of feedback from current user groups at the reserve - the Merbein Cricket Club, Saints Baseball Club, Merbein Country Fire Authority and Sunraysia Cricket Association women's competition.
Councillor for Recreation and Events Mark Eckel said the aim of the review was to ensure the venue met the needs of existing user groups and internal stakeholders for the next five years.
"User groups' priorities and usage patterns may change over time, which is why it's important we periodically review our recreation reserve masterplans to ensure they accurately reflect what our community is telling us," Cr Eckel said.
"It also provides Council staff with direction as they work to enhance the venue for both user groups and the broader community."
Merbein Cricket Club (formerly known as Merbein South Cricket Club) President Aaron Walder said the masterplan process provided a voice for sporting clubs.
"The process from our point of view has been really good, as it gives us a voice in regard to future management of the reserve and what it might look like, as well as identifying what our needs will be in the future," Mr Walder said.
Cr Eckel said the current public exhibition of the masterplan was to allow the general community to also provide input.
"The draft Chaffey Park Reserve Masterplan review has been shaped by the valuable feedback from user groups who call the Reserve home, and we now want to hear from the broader community," he said.
Three key opportunities were identified through the user group consultation process:
- Modification of the existing clubrooms to include change facilities that support the intended usage
- Upgrades to the Merbein Fire Brigade running track
- Planning and construction of a skate/bike track to complement the existing skate bowl.
Residents can view and provide their feedback on the draft Chaffey Park Reserve Masterplan review at www.mildura.vic.gov.au/HaveYourSay
Feedback can be provided until 5pm on Friday 10 June.
