Massive sporting win for Oakleigh and for Waverley Gymnastics Centre
Published on 01 December 2016
Monash Council has welcomed $3 million in State Government funding for an upgrade of the Oakleigh Recreation Centre. The upgrade will also be of massive benefit to the Waverley Gymnastics Centre.
Council intends to use the $3 million in a combined project to upgrade the existing 40-year-old basketball courts, add a fifth court, and create a facility for the Waverley Gymnastics Centre.
Monash Mayor Rebecca Paterson said the total project cost was expected to be $18-$20 million, with Council contributing between $11.9-$13.9 million. The remaining funds would come from a $2.1 million Federal Government election commitment towards the expansion of the Waverley Gymnastics Centre and a $1 million contribution from the Waverley Gymnastics Centre.
Monash Mayor Rebecca Paterson said the project would deliver outstanding benefits for the local community.
“If all three levels of government work together, we can get a wonderful modern sporting facility that meets the needs of gymnasts, as well as people wanting to play basketball and netball,” Cr Paterson said. “It’s a win win for everyone.”
The Oakleigh Recreation Centre has more than 325,000 visitors a year but the basketball courts and stadium are in desperate need of an upgrade.
Waverley Gymnastics Centre Director Tanya Johansen said gymnastic club members and families were very excited about being part of the Oakleigh Recreation Centre upgrade project.
“The Oakleigh Recreation Centre proposal will give us 50% more available floor space than if we go ahead with an upgrade of our current facility in Dorrington Road (Mount Waverley),” Mrs Johansen said.
“This means we can offer many more opportunities for new members to join and far greater training options for our existing members,” she said.
Cr Paterson said Council would continue to work with the Federal Government to secure the federal grant which had been promised to the Waverley Gymnastics Centre expansion.
“As it is clear that the gymnastics centre supports relocating to Oakleigh, I am confident that the Federal Government will realise they need to follow through with their election promise to assist this important regional sporting centre.”
Media Contact: Jo Robertson 0418 391 979 or email Joanne.Robertson@monash.vic.gov.au