Entry view of the proposed new Knox Regional Netball Centre.
Message from Alan Tudge MP
The COVID situation in Victoria has been very difficult. While the rest of the country is back to almost normal, we are still dealing with the toughest restrictions in Australia.
Thankfully, even during these difficult times, we are still seeing progress on important projects in the community.
Recently, the official plans and concept designs for the new Knox Regional Netball Centre were released and they look great. As many of you would be aware, this was an election commitment of mine and it’s great to see it progressing.
$4 million of federal funding has been secured for these much-needed upgrades and Knox Council has agreed to provide the rest and manage the construction.
This was possible, in no small part, to the many people that signed my petition, wrote letters, made phone calls, and sent emails in support of this project. Thank you to each and every one of you.
In ordinary times, the centre hosts over 6,000 people every week and is a huge part of our community’s life. The facilities are way too small for this level of attendance and games are often washed-out due the lack of indoor courts. In 2019 alone, 180 games at the centre were cancelled due to weather.
When complete, the centre will have twice as many indoor courts, seating for 300 spectators, 180 extra car parks and, as you can see from the designs, a considerable facelift.
The upgrades will especially help the netball association to expand its programs, including for players with a disability, allow larger tournaments to be held and transform the complex into a true regional centre for netball, right here in Knox.
Construction is scheduled to commence late next year and be completed in late 2022. It’s frustrating how long these projects take, but it will certainly be worth the wait.
This just one of many projects I am working to deliver in Knox. I will always fight for better local sports facilities, because I believe they benefit the entire community. They help keep people active and engaged and keep kids off the street and mentored by older people.
As usual I will keep you updated on all our local projects through Facebook, email and letterbox.
Alan Tudge
Federal MP for Aston
