On Thursday 11 February, on a perfect day for cricket and before a gathering of local politicians and Prahran Cricket Club members, City of Stonnington Mayor Cr Kate Hely opened Toorak Park's new cricket wicket practice facility.
Ahead of unveiling a plaque to commemorate the opening Cr Hely said the new nets are a much-needed community asset and training space for Prahran Cricket Club's growing membership.
"It is my pleasure to see so many members from Prahran Cricket Club here today, and to hand over to you what will be a fantastic new facility for your members," said Cr Hely.
"Council is pleased to deliver a facility that supports local sport and brings people together to enjoy the game they love.
"Cricket is a game for all - it transcends language, culture and generations and I look forward to these nets being a place where people can come and enjoy the mateship and fun that goes hand in hand with this great Aussie pastime."
The 16 wicket facility, is situated at the south west corner of Toorak Park and replaces old practice wickets that were aged and in poor condition. Several buildings were demolished to accommodate the new cricket training venue, which has more wickets and complementary facilities than previously on the site.
Infrastructure improvements such as a storage shed, public amenities and landscaping completed the project, and brings to a close stage two of the city of Stonnington's three-stage Toorak Park/Victory Square masterplan.
Two synthetic practice wickets are open for public use year-round - the remainder will be used by Prahran Cricket Club.
Membership numbers at the club continue to rise, with a growing number of women's cricket teams, junior development programs for girls and boys and a girls development squad to prepare young players for senior cricket.
The new cricket wicket facility was partly funded through the Victorian Government's Community Sports Infrastructure Fund, and Mr Enver Erdogan MLA joined Mayor Cr Kate Hely in unveiling a plaque and thanking the government for their support.
