DUCK HUNT FACE-OFF

THE multimillion- dollar Drysdale Sports Precinct is officially open for business, with stage one of the redevelopment works completed over the weekend.

The 45ha space will host a number of local clubs from different sporting codes, including the Drysdale Football and Netball Club, Drysdale Cricket Club and Drysdale Soccer Club.

The $6.726 million first stage of the project includes an AFL/cricket oval and a multiuse field with two soccer pitches, cricket practice nets and practice wickets.

Mayor Bruce Harwood said the precinct construction was part of council’s commitment to supporting grassroots sport.

“The completion of stage one is a great result for Drysdale sporting clubs, which are continuing to expand along with the area’s growing population,” Cr Harwood said.

“Local Australian football, cricket and soccer players now have a state-of-the-art facility for training and matches.

“This will greatly assist the large band of volunteers in making the Drysdale sporting community even stronger.”

The sports precinct uses a state-of-the-art LED lighting system, which uses 60 per cent less energy than traditional lighting systems.

The City of Greater Geelong contributed more than $3 million towards stage one works, with the state government chipping in $3.5 million. It is not yet known when stagetwo works (which includes a pavilion and carpark development) will begin.