28 Mar 2008

The Frankston District Basketball Centre will be boosted by a series of upgrades to improve existing facilities thanks to $60,000 from the Brumby Government, the Minister for Sport and Recreation, James Merlino, announced today.

Mr Merlino said the grant to redevelop the basketball centre was a significant result for the community, with 700 local teams calling the sports facility home.

“The current foyer, canteen and office areas here at the Centre are crowded and currently pose a safety risk,” Mr Merlino said.

“With this new funding, the redevelopment will create a safe administration area and comfortable work environment for the centre’s four staff members and 300 volunteers.

“Included as part of the redevelopment are a number of bike rails to be installed to encourage people to cycle to the centre.”

Also included in the project is the construction of a meeting room for community use and a large water storage tank for the capture of rainwater off the stadium roof.

The Brumby Government grant is part of the Community Facility Funding Program – Minors Category, which provides grants of up to $60,000 to upgrade sporting facilities across Victoria.

Carrum MP Jenny Lindell said the new grant was a great boost for the basketball centre, which is a focal point for the local community.

“Since the Frankston District Basketball Centre opened in 1979, it has hosted a number of high profile championships, such as the under 14 Boys Australian Championships, but more importantly it is a significant part of our local infrastructure,” Ms Lindell said.

“This centre represents the Victorian sporting tradition and we must continue to do our very best to make sure it is here to serve our community for many years to come.”

Mr Merlino said the grant demonstrated the Brumby Government’s commitment to provide quality sport and recreation facilities across Victoria.

“We want people to stay healthy and physically active, which is what our Go for your life campaign is all about – getting more Victorians involved in sport and recreation in their local community,” he said.

Frankston City Council committed $70,000 towards the $200,000 project, as did the Frankston District Basketball Association.

Redevelopment work is expected to start in July 2008 and is due for completion in mid 2009.