Bass Coast Shire Council has taken an exciting step forward for sport and community life in Inverloch, with the awarding of the contract to build the long-awaited new pavilion at Thompson Reserve.
At its March Council meeting, Council endorsed the award of the construction contract to Kubale Constructions Pty Ltd, following a competitive public tender process.
The project will see the demolition of the existing pavilion and the construction of a new, modern facility designed to better support local clubs, players and the wider community.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead said the decision marks an important milestone for a project that the Inverloch community has been looking forward to for many years.
"This is fantastic news for the Inverloch community and everyone involved with sport at Thompson Reserve," Cr Halstead said.
"This pavilion has been a long-awaited project for local clubs, volunteers and families who have worked incredibly hard to keep sport thriving at the reserve.
"The new facility will provide modern, inclusive amenities that support participation in sport for everyone, particularly women and girls."
The new pavilion will include four change rooms, an umpire room, first aid room, multi-purpose community space, kitchen and canteen along with accessible toilets and storage.
The project will also deliver upgraded services, solar panels, accessible car parks and surrounding infrastructure to support the reserve into the future.
The project has received $1 million in funding from the Victorian Government's Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund - Women and Girls Facilities Round, supporting improved participation opportunities for women and girls in sport.
The construction contract is valued at $1,657,624 (excluding GST) and forms part of Council's Capital Works Program.
The Inverloch Cricket Club and Inverloch Stars Soccer Club are both contributing $25,000 to build.
Construction is expected to begin in the middle of April with completion anticipated by early December 2026.
Cr Halstead said Council is excited to see the project begin.
"We know the community has been eager to see this project get underway," she said.
Quote attributable to David Settle, Club President, Inverloch Stars Soccer Club:
"With more local kids playing soccer each year, the new pavilion will be a fantastic facility for our players and families and a great home for the club. We're proud to have senior men's and women's teams with many long-time players who've been part of the Stars since the early days, so it's really exciting to see the club getting this new space. A big thank you to Bass Coast Shire Council for their hard work in making it happen."
