The Eureka Stadium redevelopment has hit another milestone with the release of the detailed designs by architect Peddle Thorp for the 5,000 seat grandstand that will ensure Ballarat has AFL football from 2017.
Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford, Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight and community representatives to formally launch the architectural designs that will now go to contractors currently tendering for the project.
The redevelopment has already passed a number of important milestones including realigning the football oval’s orientation by 32 degrees to meet AFL and Western Bulldogs requirements, laying an upgraded playing surface the same size as Etihad and new lights.
As part of his visit to Ballarat, the Premier will join locals tonight to see the new 37 metre light towers illuminate the first competitive evening VFL clash as North Ballarat take on regional rivals Geelong.
With a capacity of more than 11,000, the redeveloped stadium will ensure AFL games can come to Ballarat. The Western Bulldogs Football Club is set to play its first game at the ground next year.
Other improvements include upgraded change rooms, a new video and electronic scoreboard, better merchandise and food stalls and universal-access toilets.
The winning contractor will be announced in June with construction due to start soon after. The grandstand will be completed in time for AFL footy in 2017.
The project is expected to create 38 construction jobs, draw another 21,000 visitors to Ballarat each year and increase annual tourism spending in the city by up to $3.6 million.
The new stadium will also cater for international acts and tournaments, bringing events to the region that would otherwise have to be held only in Melbourne or Geelong.
The Labor Government is providing $31.5 million towards the Eureka precinct redevelopment, which includes upgrading Eureka Stadium, the Wendouree Sports and Events Centre, the C.E. Brown Reserve and the Ballarat Showgrounds.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“A world-class city deserves a world-class stadium, and in 2017 thanks to investment by the Labor Government, Ballarat will finally host the world’s greatest game.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
"The Bulldogs playing in Ballarat is another step closer with the release of these detailed designs for the new grandstand. AFL footy means more fans through the gate, more visitors to Ballarat and more jobs for the region.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Wendouree Sharon Knight
“We said we’d bring AFL footy to Ballarat and we’re doing just that. Having AFL matches here in our city is great for jobs and great for tourism.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020