The Andrews Labor Government will fund new event infrastructure on Alexandra Oval to attract more festivals, sporting events and visitors to Ararat – boosting jobs and local businesses.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford visited Ararat today to announce $500,000 from the Andrews Labor Government to build new, dedicated facilities at the ground.
Event infrastructure at the Oval is limited and outdated, meaning only smaller events and markets can be hosted.
The funding will deliver new terraced seating to maximise capacity and viewing opportunities, level grassed and compacted gravel areas for marquees and pop up activities, a formalised car parking area, and grandstand improvements including weather protection for spectators.
Ararat Rural City Council is also contributing $377,000 to the Ararat On the Move – Events & Visitor Space revamp, which it is hoped will significantly increase tourist numbers to the town as a gateway to the Grampians.
The redevelopment of Alexandra Oval as a site for major events will energise Ararat and bring significant flow on effects for local businesses.
It complements the recent Ararat Visitor Economy Strategy 2018-2021, which identified that Ararat has a real opportunity to drive local economic growth by positioning itself as a tourism destination.
The $500,000 grant is from the Labor Government’s $500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, which is investing in projects that make regional Victoria a better place to live, work and do business.
In September, the Labor Government announced $500,000 from the Female Friendly Facilities Fund for two new netball courts, female friendly clubrooms and an indoor female recreation hub also at Alexandra Oval.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“I am thrilled to be here in Ararat today to announce this funding, which will really help put Ararat on the map for events and festivals going forward.”
“Ararat is definitely on the move. Recently the new Arts Precinct was unveiled and now we are working to ensure Alexandra Oval is a premier regional sporting and events precinct.”
“More visitors means more people in town spending locally – and that’s fantastic news for jobs, businesses and the Ararat community.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020