The completion of a major upgrade to the Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium (GRISS) was officially celebrated today, further cementing its place as one of Gippsland's premier sporting and events venues.
The event was attended by Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing; Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Sharon Gibson; Latrobe City councillors; South East Melbourne Phoenix CEO Simon Derrick; Gunaikurnai, Bidwal, Gunditjmara artist Bradley Brown; community sporting clubs and project partners.
Delivered through a partnership between Latrobe City Council and the Victorian Government, with funding through its Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, the upgrade includes new and refurbished changerooms and amenities, solar panels and batteries, upgraded lighting, foyer improvements, new broadcasting facilities, automated blinds and shutters, and additional storage facilities.
Cr Gibson said the completed works would enhance the experience for users while strengthening GRISS as a venue capable of attracting major sporting and community events.
"GRISS is one of Gippsland's most important sporting facilities, welcoming thousands of participants, spectators and visitors each year," Cr Gibson said.
"These upgrades will ensure the stadium can meet the needs of our growing community into the long-term future while also attracting an even greater number of major events that bring thousands of visitors to our region and stimulate the local economy."
GRISS is home to a range of local sporting organisations and community groups, including basketball, badminton and gymnastics clubs, and regularly hosts regional, state and national events. The venue also supports elite competitions, including National Basketball League and Women's NBL fixtures.
Local businesses and contractors have benefitted from the investment at the Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium. Across the three lead contractors and design teams there were more than 50 jobs supported and an additional 66 businesses engaged. A large portion of materials were also sourced locally from the Gippsland region.
At the official opening, Cr Gibson thanked the Victorian Government for funding the project and acknowledged the contributions of project partners, contractors, sporting clubs, community representatives and members of the project reference group who helped guide the successful delivery of the upgrades.
"The completion of the works enable GRISS to continue serving Latrobe City and the wider Gippsland region as a leading indoor sports, recreation and events venue for years to come," Cr Gibson said.
