A MAJOR redevelopment of the Cameron Sporting Complex in Maffra is on track for completion in April next year, with local basketballers, netballers and volleyballers looking forward to testing out the new facilities when COVID-19 restrictions allow.
It follows the recent completion of the first stage, with the major project milestone marking completion of two new basketball, netball and volleyball compliant indoor courts, new changerooms, new storerooms, refurbishment of the existing show court, development of new gymnastics extension areas as well as access ramps and footpaths.
The $8.49 million project is being funded by Wellington Shire Council, the state government through Sport and Recreation Victoria and the Latrobe Valley Authority, the Maffra Amateur Basketball Association and Maffra Gymnastic Club.
Wellington Shire mayor Alan Hall said at a time when local sports had been suspended because of COVID-19 health regulations, it was welcome news this major project was still progressing.
“There will be many local kids and adults who will be excited to hear about the stage one milestone and will be looking forward to hitting the new courts once these restrictions are relaxed,” he said.
“We can’t wait to see the three courts full of people playing their favourite sports and enjoying this new space.”
State Community Sport Minister Ros Spence said the project was providing a big boost for the Maffra community.
“This is a very exciting milestone in the redevelopment of Maffra’s Cameron Sports Stadium, supported by the Victorian government,” she said.
“The project is on track for completion in April next year, with local contractors playing a big part in all aspects of the redevelopment – benefitting both local sporting groups and Gippsland businesses.”
Brooker Builders from Bairnsdale are the principal contractor and they have engaged 95 per cent local subcontractors on the project. Local timbers were used in the construction of the new sports floors – milled in Bairnsdale from east Gippsland timbers.
Stage two of the project has now begun and involves the redevelopment of the existing gymnastic club area, including a roof extension to 12 metres to allow for competition trampolining.
The existing kiosk, amenities and administration areas, as well as the circulation spaces will also be redeveloped. External work including cladding, access roads, formalised parking and landscaping will also take place during stage two.
“Stage two is very much Maffra Gymnastic Club’s time to shine, with some very needed improvements taking place to ensure it continues to improve on its already impressive national reputation for excellence,” Cr Hall said.
“Council is very much looking forward to the project being complete and we can see how the redevelopment has improved access to sports and recreation to the people of Maffra and surrounding communities.”
