The Andrews Labor Government has scored a massive new deal that will bring more rugby union tests to Melbourne and grow the game at grassroots level right across the state.
Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events John Eren and Member for Narre Warren North Luke Donnellan joined the Victorian Rugby Union and the Melbourne Rebels at Fountain Gate Secondary College Rugby Academy today to announce $500,000 to upgrade one of its rugby pitches.
With more than 100 students in Fountain Gate’s Rugby Academy program, this upgrade will help cater for growth and deliver the playing and training facilities our talented athletes need to become Victoria’s next rugby great.
Today’s announcement builds on the Labor Government’s $200,000 commitment to upgrade the Academy’s strength and conditioning room.
With the Melbourne Rebels back in the hands of the Victorian rugby community, our home-grown talent is assured of a pathway from junior programs to Super Rugby and international representation.
In another win for local union fans, Melbourne is set to host six major Wallabies Test Matches over eight years, starting with a match against Ireland in 2018.
Victoria has also secured the coveted Bledisloe Cup in 2020 and the touring British and Irish Lions in 2025.
The Andrews Labor Government is proud to work with the Australian Rugby Union and the Victorian Rugby Union to develop a world class calendar of events and grassroots programs.
This partnership will ensure rugby continues to grow at all levels in Victoria, inspiring the next generation of home-grown Rebels, Wallabies and Wallaroos like Ellia Green and Jordan Uelese.
This package delivers the best action for fans, provides a massive boost to tourism and jobs, and reaffirms Victoria’s status as the sporting and major events capital of Australia.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Sport, Tourism and Major Events John Eren
“It’s a great time for rugby union in Victoria – the Rebels are here to stay and the Wallabies will play against the very best on the world stage right here in the sporting capital.”
“We’re proud to back the talent of tomorrow and will continue to bring the big games to town, because we know that without the grassroots we will never be home to the greats.”
Quote attributable to Member for Narre Warren North Luke Donnellan
“The Fountain Gate Rugby Academy program is a fantastic breeding ground that nurtures our future sporting stars and supports our kids in the classroom – our upgrades will make a big difference.”
Quote attributable to Victorian Rugby Union President Tim North
“The code’s future in this state has been bolstered thanks to this Government’s investment across the sport, from locking down so many fantastic Wallabies games and securing the future of the Rebels, to supporting the future development of our young players, Victoria continues to be the sporting capital of Australia.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020