New Complex To Put The Capricorn Coast On Sporting Map

27 June 2016

Shire Council is planning for a healthy future on the coast, welcoming $1.5 million in funding for a planned Emu Park sports complex.

The Hartley St Sport and Recreation Complex is set to provide two new rugby fields with library, multi-purpose amenities building with training, change and first-aid rooms, a kiosk, and upgraded road and car park access.

The State Government funding was announced on Friday as part of the Get Playing Plus program.

Livingstone Shire mayor Bill Ludwig said the council had committed $3 million to the project, in partnership with the Emu Park Bendigo Community Bank.

The Coalition has also pledged $1.5 million as part of its federal election commitments.

"The community is hopeful that the federal funding commitment will receive bi-partisan support, however that has to date not been confirmed," Cr Ludwig said.

"This is a much-needed project for growing sports in the regions and meeting the needs of one of the fastest-growing areas in the region."

Cr Graham Scott said as the community's needs grew, future planned stages would include two extra multi-use ovals to accommodate cricket and AFL, as well as 14 fully sealed netball courts, which could accommodate other sport, including tennis.

"Once complete, the Hartley St Sport and Recreation Complex will ... firmly position the Capricorn Coast as a destination of choice to host large-scale regional and state sporting events," he said.

When asked about the Labor Party's position on the project, Capricornia candidate Leisa Neaton said she supported the precinct.

"This is a great project, and an example of what can be done when you work in with council," she said.

"If I'm elected, I'll sit down with Mayor Ludwig and do everything possible to support the project."

 

Source : themorningbulletin.com.au