Kardinia Park’s status as Australia’s premier regional stadium has been secured with confirmation today of a $40 million funding boost from the Andrews Labor Government to complete the ground’s transformation.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula announced that the Victorian Budget 2020/21 will include the additional allocation to fully fund Stage 5 of the Kardinia Park redevelopment.
The Labor Government had previously committed $102 million to the project which will involve the construction of a 14,000 capacity, two-tier northern stand to replace the ageing Ford Stand and Ablett Terrace, increasing the stadium’s capacity to over 40,000 and boosting Geelong’s ability to attract national and international events.
The $142 million Stage 5 works will benefit hundreds of thousands of sports fans and users each year, especially those from Geelong and the western district.
The new stand will include facilities for all levels including new professional standard unisex change rooms and a home for the Geelong Cricket Club. The region’s up-and-coming cricketers will also benefit from the creation of a regional cricket hub.
Whether it be an AFL match, T20 cricket or one of the many community events held at the stadium, patrons will continue to enjoy world-class facilities year round thanks to a new northern entry plaza, sports museum, function room and a suite of technology upgrades including high-speed public wi-fi and LED signage.
Stadium operations will be bolstered through the delivery of a new administration area for stadium and event staff and dedicated sustainability measures. Work is expected to begin in the new year.
The most recent stage of the stadium redevelopment was completed in 2017 and included the new Brownlow Stand, a community-based rehabilitation centre and training and administration facilities for the Geelong Football Club. The Victorian Government contributed $75 million towards those works.
Kardinia Park attracts more than 400,000 spectators in a standard year across a diverse calendar that includes regular AFL, BBL, WBBL and A-League matches.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
“Kardinia Park is a much-loved part of Geelong and Victoria and we’re proud to be backing its development for the benefit of fans and users now and for generations to come.”
“With new and improved facilities and a bigger capacity, the stadium will continue to attract A-grade sport and entertainment to Geelong and ensure that the city’s name is known around the globe.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong Christine Couzens
“The final stage of the Kardinia Park redevelopment means construction jobs for Geelong and the completion of the best and largest regional sporting facility in the country.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville
“Kardinia Park has been the home of sport and the heart and soul of Geelong for many decades. This final stage will ensure the facility can contribute to the Geelong region and the state into the future.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“A state Labor government started redeveloping Kardinia Park and the Andrews Government will finish it. It’s Geelong’s sporting and events epicentre and is without a doubt the MCG of regional Australia.”
Quote attributable to Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman
“This final stage will secure the social and economic benefits of Kardinia Park, being an additional drawcard for many visitors to the wider Geelong region.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“Kardinia Park will secure its world-class status –this is fantastic news for Victoria’s second city, one that loves footy and big events.”
Quotes attributable to Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chair Stephen Gough
“We’re delighted with this investment from the Victorian Government which will deliver a world-class stadium designed to serve its community.”
“Kardinia Park continues to enhance its recognition as Australia’s best regional stadium.”
Reviewed 06 November 2020