The transformation of the Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre and the Traralgon Indoor Sports Stadium will ramp up with them sharing in a $10 million loan from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Sport John Eren and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing announced the funding today, which will allow Latrobe City Council to start further upgrades at both venues, benefitting the community and helping attract big events.
The Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre will be able to build a 50-metre competition pool with spectator seating,
a 25-metre outdoor pool, warm water pool, indoor water play areas, water slides, gym, wellness centre and more with an $8 million loan, in addition to the Labor Government’s $46 million in funding for the redevelopment.
At the Traralgon Sports Stadium, a $2 million loan will support the Labor Government’s $17 million in funding for four additional indoor courts, including a new basketball show court with seating for 3,000 spectators, changerooms and an activity centre complete with gym.
It is expected the upgrades will increase the number of sports programs on offer, boost participation, help the venues attract and stage big events and strengthen community ties.
The Labor Government’s $100 million Community Sports Infrastructure Loans Scheme provides low-interest loans of between $500,000 and $10 million for councils, clubs and organisations to improve or develop new community sport and recreation infrastructure.
Since November 2014, the Labor Government has invested more than $420 million in community sport and recreation facilities.
Sport and recreation are the lifeblood of Victorian communities and the Labor Government is ensuring communities like those in the Valley have first class facilities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport John Eren
“Community sport is vital for our regional areas – this investment will encourage the Latrobe Valley community to participate and engage in sporting, recreational and social activities.”
“We are working together with local councils to make local sport and recreation more welcoming, inclusive and accessible for all Victorians.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“We’re delighted to provide the Valley with the new facilities they need so locals can attract big events and play the sports they love in their own backyard.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020