The Andrews Labor Government is giving Victoria’s first class cricketers the high performance home they deserve at St Kilda’s iconic Junction Oval.
Today, Minister for Sport John Eren and Member for Albert Park Martin Foley joined Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland and Cricket Victoria chief executive Tony Dodemaide at the oval to unveil designs for the Victorian Cricket and Community Centre.
From the grassroots to the Sheffield Shield, cricket in Victoria is as popular as ever, and it’s the Bushrangers leading the charge. The Labor Government is giving the champions a place that will help them remain the best in Australia, and Cricket Victoria the facility it needs to continue to thrive.
The Labor Government’s $25 million contribution will provide a second ICC-compliant first class ground for Melbourne, and ensure cricket and AFL no longer clash at the MCG at the beginning of the AFL season. The new Junction Oval will include women’s facilities for Victorian Spirit, and state-of-the-art medical and rehabilitation areas.
Some 327,000 Victorians play cricket, while the Bushrangers have won the Sheffield Shield 29 times. The Labor Government’s investment gives the game the venue it needs to attract players and fans, improve Indigenous and all-abilities cricket development, and find the next test cricket star.
Cox Architecture has been appointed to lead the project, with works to commence by the end of the year. Cox Architecture has designed a number of sporting infrastructure projects, including the MCG’s Northern Stand, Adelaide Oval and AAMI Park. Construction will create jobs and strengthen Victoria’s economy.
The project is being funded in partnership with Cricket Victoria and Cricket Australia.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren
“We promised our cricketers a world-class venue they could call their own and we’re getting on with it. Our first class champions deserve the best facilities.”
“A world-class Junction Oval will mean cricket and football never again clash at the MCG. It means fans won’t miss out on a chance to see their heroes in action.”
“Cricket participation is higher in Victoria than any other state, and we’re ensuring we give the game the resources it needs to grow.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Albert Park Martin Foley
“Junction Oval is an iconic venue with a rich history. We’re upgrading it, so it can continue to host the game’s brightest talents.”
“It will rejuvenate Junction Oval, not only as a statewide facility but as an important community venue in this fast-growing area.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020