The Allan Labor Government is giving Ballarat’s athletes more opportunities to train, compete and win, with work on the brand-new pavilion at Frank Bourke Northern Oval No.2 now underway.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison today represented Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes to formally mark the commencement of construction on the new pavilion, and tour the project site, which once complete will feature a kitchen, canteen and bar to support functions and matches.

Made possible thanks to a $5 million Labor Government investment through the Council Support Package program, it also includes a veranda for spectators, an upgraded and relocated scorer’s box, accessible change rooms for players and umpires, and spaces for community events and gatherings.

The new facilities will be modern and spacious, designed to make it easier for clubs and community groups to expand their training programs at the oval, encourage locals to enjoy active lifestyles and support pathways for athletes to reach elite competition.

The build is already a win for regional workers, with SHAPE Australia developing the structure’s modular components at their Kinglake factory prior to being assembled on site by local tradespeople.

Located within the Ballarat Major Events Precinct, the Frank Bourke Oval redevelopment will complement ongoing upgrades to the nearby Mars Stadium and create a true home for both community and professional sport in Ballarat and the Central Highlands region.

The project is one of 27 across Victoria funded by the Council Support Package – which is designed to help councils attract more visitors and create public spaces that strengthen local communities, including at Landy Field in Geelong, Shepparton’s Sport City Precinct and the Bendigo Low Line.

It’s all part of the Victorian Government’s record more than $47 billion investment to help make rural and regional Victorian cities and towns even better places to live, work, play and stay. For more info visit rdv.vic.gov.au

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“The Victorian Labor Government’s $5 million investment at Frank Bourke Oval (North No. 2) will deliver the modern, inclusive facilities our growing sporting community deserves. With a new pavilion with a kitchen, canteen and bar to support functions as well as new accessible change rooms for players and umpire, we’re backing out sporting clubs with the infrastructure they need to grow.”

“These upgrades will support the North Ballarat Football & Netball Club, strengthen local cricket, and help drive even greater participation in women’s sport. As part of the broader Ballarat Major Events Precinct redevelopment, this project reinforces our commitment to building a premier regional sporting hub. I’m proud to be backing local clubs, local talent and local families.”