Perfect spring weather and a strong finals crowd set the scene in Swifts Creek on Saturday for the official opening of the town's upgraded recreation reserve.
The $2.9 million project was celebrated on the day of the Omeo District Football Netball League grand finals, with players and supporters making the most of the new facilities that have already been in use this season. Netballers competed on the competition-standard courts while footballers prepared in the modern pavilion, adding to the sense of occasion on the league's biggest day.
Mayor Cr John White said the day highlighted the value of sport in country communities.
'While these facilities will host plenty of matches and training sessions in the years ahead, they will also offer a safe and reliable hub in times of emergency, a place to gather if bushfires or other challenges occur.
So today, let's enjoy the celebrations, support the final teams on the field, and take pride in what the community has achieved together.'
The pavilion includes changerooms, umpire and first aid rooms, office and storage space, and all-abilities access. The outdoor courts feature lighting, shelters and pathways, making the reserve a hub for the community.
The official opening ceremony was attended by The Honourable Tom McIntosh MP Victorian Legislative Council Member for Eastern Victoria, The Honourable Darren Chester, Federal Member for Gippsland, The Honourable Tim Bull MP, Member for Gippsland East, and Deputy Mayor Cr Sonia Buckley. They joined the Swifts Creek Committee of Management, ODFNL officials, players, volunteers and supporters to celebrate the project.
The opening highlighted the strong partnership between the community and Council in delivering the upgraded reserve.
The upgrade was funded by the Victorian Government through Emergency Recovery Victoria and Regional Development Victoria, with funding also provided by Swifts Creek Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and Council. The Australian Government and Victorian Government co-shared funding for the Local Community Grants Program.
