Campaspe Shire Council has awarded the tender for the $13 million project, which will see the construction of a new space for sporting and community groups that will double as an emergency relief centre.
At the Tuesday, August 19 meeting, councillors unanimously passed the recommendation to award the tender, with Cr Tony Marwood moving the motion.
“This is a great day for our community,” he said.
“This is a project that has been dreamt about for probably past 20 years or more.
“I want to take a moment to thank all of the staff over the last two years, from the people who wrote the grant application to the construction team, to the people who advocated to different local governments over the journey; thank you very much.”
Mayor Daniel Mackrell reflected on the community value of the new space for regular user groups and in potential emergencies.
“The Victoria Park multipurpose facility will not only provide a modern, fit-for-purpose space for sporting and community groups, but will also serve as a vital emergency relief centre in times of need,” he said.
“This project is about more than bricks and mortar.
“It’s about building resilience, strengthening community connections, and creating a space that reflects the diverse needs of our region.”
Expressions of interest were advertised in November and December 2024, with four submissions shortlisted to a request-for-tender process, guided by an external probity adviser due to the project cost.
Construction is set to start in October, and is estimated to be completed in December 2026.
Alternative arrangements have been made for user groups during the construction period.
Cr Zoe Cook is happy to see the temporary sacrifices made for a lasting asset.
“Everyone has been very accommodating and supportive, in the acknowledgment that you have to take the short-term hit for the long-term gain of this fantastic new facility,” she said.
To subscribe to project updates, head to campaspe.vic.gov.au/vicpark
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