Petition to fix Nhill grandstand
Arapidly deteriorating grandstand pavilion at Nhill’s Davis Park has prompted Member for Lowan Emma Kealy to launch a petition for State Government money.
Ms Kealy said the pavilion, constructed in 1965, was integral to sporting and community events at the reserve and was in desperate need of attention.
She said the condition of the pavilion, which was now unsafe for community use and sitting idle in the heart of a busy regional community reserve, was an issue demanding an immediate government response.
“The community has expressed deep concern about the future of the pavilion and its upgrade or replacement is a priority infrastructure project clearly identified by Hindmarsh Shire Council,” she said.
Ms Kealy stressed the importance of the pavilion and in general Davis Park, a central gathering and activity area for a large section of the west Wimmera community.
“Development of the recreation reserve by renewing the community pavilion and refurbishment of the change rooms and toilet facilities will help accommodate the many district people who use the facilities every day,” she said.
“This project would greatly increase access and use of the facility and benefit community groups and sporting organisations. To have a grandstand pavilion operational is not only beneficial, it’s essential when considering the importance of Davis Park to the local community,” she said.
Davis Park is home to Nhill and District Sporting Club, a community umbrella organisation that works with Hindmarsh Shire Council to oversee cricket, football, hockey, netball and soccer participation and competition.
The club is the largest sporting organisation in the district with a membership base of 580 individuals and is renowned for its travelling supporter base and positive relationships with clubs, players and supporters from other Wimmera centres.
Davis Park is also an integral playing arena for Wimmera Football League, Wimmera Netball Association and Wimmera Hockey Association, attracting people from across western Victoria for sporting fixtures.
“I am calling on the Andrews Labor government to show support for our regional communities and provide funding for Nhill’s Davis Park upgrade project,” Ms Kealy said.
Ms Kealy’s petition calls on the government to ‘immediately provide funding to enable the pavilion to be repaired or rebuilt’.
She said petition forms were available at a variety of Nhill businesses, her Horsham electoral office in Firebrace Street or by calling her office on 5382 0097.
“Country sport is missing out under Premier Daniel Andrews who is handing over millions of dollars of taxpayer money to the AFL to redevelop the already world-class Etihad Stadium,” Ms Kealy said.
“If elected in November, the Nationals will deliver a better deal for country Victoria and redirect the funds and use them to support our grassroots sporting clubs, benefiting hundreds of thousands of Victorians.”