A multi-million-dollar overhaul could be in store for a well frequented sporting reserve in Narre Warren.
If elected at the State election, the Liberals and Nationals will commit $6.4 million for a series of upgrades to Max Pawsey Reserve, Opposition leader Matt Guy announced on 1 November.
Max Pawsey Reserve lies in the heart of Narre Warren, nearby to Bunjil Place and Westfield Fountain Gate, where more than 250,000 people filter through each week.
The reserve hosts a number of clubs and events which attract tens of thousands of people, including the Fountain Gate Cricket, Junior Football and Tennis clubs, the Narre Warren Bowls and Little Athletics clubs, the local scout group, Auskick, the Dandenong District Cricket Association and also the Carols by Twilight.
The Liberals and Nationals will consult with the community and users of the reserve to best deliver the upgrades, including new dual-purpose pavilion and changeroom facilities to including a community space, a scout hall, storage, public toilets, new cricket practice nets, and a new electronic scoreboard.
Other improvements would include upgrades to the main oval and white picket fencing, the installation of an awning over terrace spectator seating, a new playground, barbecue area, benches and seating and improved and extra parking including along the Princes Highway, Fountain Drive and Magid Drive.
Opposition leader Matt Guy said the Liberals and Nationals’ commitment was a significant sign of confidence in community sport for the Casey area.
“This announcement is for the nearly 30,000 people that use these facilities year-round, including more than half of residents living in Narre Warren,” he said.
“The Liberals and Nationals recognise the important role grassroot sports play in bringing together the community and we will continue to encourage that.”
Member for Gembrook and Liberal candidate for Berwick, Brad Battin, said the improvements would support the booming area.
“It’s no secret that the Casey area has seen huge population growth in recent years. Our commitment will mean more visitors and players, across more teams and clubs, can enjoy these new spaces for years to come.
“It is great to see so many people getting outside onto the grass, being active and looking after their health and wellbeing. That’s something we will always back.”
Liberal candidate for Narre Warren North, Timothy Dragan, looked forward to seeing the sporting precinct develop into a world-class venue.
He said Max Pawsey Reserve would become a sporting hub for the region, with competition standard playing surfaces, adequate parking and community spaces, with food, shopping and entertainment just over the road.
